Old Man Jingles
Rat out of a cage
NASA to Reexamine 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.
NASA will also no longer use the term “Ron Jeremy nebula” to refer to NGC 4567 found in the Virgo Galaxy Cluster.
Moving forward, NASA will use only the official, International Astronomical Union designations in cases where nicknames are inappropriate.
NASA is considering new name for the Ron Jeremy nebula.
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.
NASA will also no longer use the term “Ron Jeremy nebula” to refer to NGC 4567 found in the Virgo Galaxy Cluster.
Moving forward, NASA will use only the official, International Astronomical Union designations in cases where nicknames are inappropriate.
NASA is considering new name for the Ron Jeremy nebula.
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