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wolram
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I like the idea that the names are so culturally diverse and representative of Earth as a whole. Also the occasional obligatory Latin terms are like a familiar friend. all in all a very balanced job of Nomenclature.wolram said:
As a scientist, I am not qualified to have an opinion on the names chosen for features on Pluto. My focus is on studying the scientific data and discoveries about this dwarf planet.
The International Astronomical Union (IAU) is responsible for naming celestial bodies and their features. The new names for features on Pluto were chosen by the IAU after extensive research and consideration.
The IAU has a set of guidelines and criteria for naming features on celestial bodies. This involves taking suggestions from the scientific community and public, and then a committee makes the final decision based on the guidelines.
Yes, the new names for features on Pluto are chosen to have significance related to the feature itself. For example, the feature called "Sputnik Planitia" is named after the first artificial satellite, Sputnik 1, to honor the discovery of Pluto's moon, Charon.
According to the IAU, once a name is officially approved, it cannot be changed unless there are exceptional circumstances. However, if new information or discoveries are made about a feature, a new name may be chosen to better reflect its characteristics.