It would be great to have a star in your name, isn’t it? Imagine it, you have always looked at the sky and wondered how much does it cost to buy a star. Does not it make sense that if you cannot be a king of the galaxies, then at least you should be a king of the stars, even if it is just technically? But let’s find out.
Why Buy a Star?
The concept of naming a star after a friend or a loved one has recently become popular as a gift idea. In the end, the only things that remain are the stars, shining forever as a reminder. Is this not a lovely concept, to write down someone’s name in the heavenly list? Nevertheless, it is important to understand that these actions, however meaningful, are not the same as the actual ownership.
Fun Fact: The International Astronomical Union (IAU) is the organization that is in charge of giving names to stars and they do not sell star names.
The Cost of Stars
So how much does it actually cost to buy a star? The prices are quite different and can be set between $20 and a few hundred dollars, depending on the package and the companies that provide so called ‘naming rights’. Nevertheless, it is very important to know what it is that you are actually paying for. Some examples include the International Star Registry (ISR) that provides a product – a certificate of symbolic naming and not legal ownership.
What’s Included in the Package?
Various companies provide different packages. Sometimes you might get a certificate, a map of the stars where your star is and perhaps a book about stars and astronomy.
Below is an elaborate description of what is offered in each package:
| Package | Inclusions | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Basic | Certificate, Star Map | $20 – $50 |
| Standard | Certificate, Star Map, Booklet | $50 – $100 |
| Deluxe | Framed Certificate, Star Map, Booklet, Star Chart Software | $100 – $200 |
The Illusion of Ownership
Buying a star name is a ritual. The names you pick will not be listed in the professional astronomer’s or scientific star catalog. But that should not depress you! It is about the feeling, the idea of linking something enormous and boundless to a particular person.
Star Names in History
In the past, stars were used in navigation and told stories. The names of the stars we know today, such as Sirius, Betelgeuse, or Polaris, were given to these stars by ancient peoples for practical and poetic reasons.
Did You Know? Polaris is the Latin name for the star, ‘Stella Polaris,’ which means ‘Pole Star.’
Choosing the Perfect Star Name
Choosing a star name can be as fun as choosing a name for a baby. It is a creative process. Some people use their own or their friends’ or relatives’ names, while others prefer to use some insider jokes or the moments that are important for the relationship between the person they are going to dedicate the star to.
- Think about the many memories you have shared with the person.
- Reflect on what has drawn your attention from the sky.
- Use the names that only the two of you know and that have a special meaning to you both.
Are There Alternatives?
If you find the concept of naming a star too theoretical, then try something else in the astronomy-related goods or services. A star-gazing subscription, a do it yourself telescope kit or even a visit to an observatory are perhaps more hands on ways of encouraging people’s interest in the stars.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I buy a star name legally?
No, these names are not approved by any legal or scientific authority.
What’s included in a star naming package?
Typically, a certificate, star map, and sometimes a booklet or software.
Can I see my star?
It is possible that with some maps or applications you can determine more or less where your star is located based on the coordinates.
In Conclusion
In the course of this celestial experience, a star is purchased for the purpose of sentiment, to convey those feelings to the sky. Although it is impossible to obtain a star in the legal sense, the meaning of such an act is out of this world. So, whether you are learning about the sky or giving the sky, do so with caution in this star gift giving.
Thanks for sticking with me through this journey of buying stars. Please feel free to check out other articles on our website to keep on discovering more about the universe.
