NASA Plans to Examine Nicknames for Cosmic Objects for Insensitive/Offensive Names

NASA wants to eliminate insensitive and offensive nicknames for cosmic objects,

Distant cosmic objects such as planets, galaxies, and nebulae are sometimes referred to by the scientific community with unofficial nicknames. As the scientific community works to identify and address systemic discrimination and inequality in all aspects of the field, it has become clear that certain cosmic nicknames are not only insensitive, but can be actively harmful. NASA is examining its use of unofficial terminology for cosmic objects as part of its commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

As an initial step, NASA will no longer refer to planetary nebula NGC 2392, the glowing remains of a Sun-like star that is blowing off its outer layers at the end of its life, as the “Eskimo Nebula.” “Eskimo” is widely viewed as a colonial term with a racist history, imposed on the indigenous people of Arctic regions. Most official documents have moved away from its use. NASA will also no longer use the term “Siamese Twins Galaxy” to refer to NGC 4567 and NGC 4568, a pair of spiral galaxies found in the Virgo Galaxy Cluster. Moving forward, NASA will use only the official, International Astronomical Union designations in cases where nicknames are inappropriate.

Conservative satire site The Babylon Bee immediately did its thing in response to NASA’s announcement with an amusing “Guide to More Inclusive Space Terms.”

On the one hand, certainly it makes sense to periodically review naming conventions like this for offensive or non-preferred terms. On the other hand, this sort of activity often seems to take place largely as a matter of virtue signalling that takes the place of actually tackling difficult racial and political issues.

It is undoubtedly easier to stop referring to the “Eskimo Nebula,” for example, than to address the United States’ continued abrogation of its treaties with the Inuit.

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