For the first time, the public can choose the monikers of select exoplanets during a global contest "NameExoWorlds." Phase one started on Tuesday as registered clubs and non-profits nominated exosystems to be included in the designation contest, according to the International Astronomical Union (IAU).
The IAU is in charge of giving names recognized by the scientific community to celestial bodies. The NameExoWorlds contest will be the first time the public is allowed to name exoplanets and the stars around them, according to IAU.
The first stage of the contest will close at 23:59 UTC on Feb 15. Nominations will only be accepted by clubs registered with the IAU Directory of World Astronomy. The deadline to register with the IAU is 23:59 UTC on May 15.
Once the systems are nominated, stage two will begin and each registered club can submit a name for one exoworld, according to IAU. All names must abide by IAU Exoplanet Naming Conventions and follow the normal pattern of "proper noun + lowercase letter." The organizations are asked to give a passionate - and detailed - contention for their selection.
The final stage will be a worldwide public vote for favorite exoplanet names. The results will be announced at a public ceremony during the IAU XXIX General Assembly in Honolulu in August.
