Is naming a star real?
The star is real. The name is a symbolic gift. Both are true, and it is worth knowing the difference before you buy.
What is real
- The star itself: a real star from the Hipparcos catalogue, with a catalogue number anyone can look up, its position in the sky and its distance from Earth.
- The record: in the Skymark Registry the star is recorded once, under the name you chose, with a registry number and date. It is not given to anyone else in our registry.
- The certificate and the star page, which show where the star is and how to find it.
What is not
- Only the International Astronomical Union (IAU) gives stars names that astronomers use. It does not sell names, and no company can sell one.
- Astronomers will not use the name you chose, and it will not appear in scientific star catalogues.
- You do not own the star. Other companies keep their own separate lists, and may record the same star under another name.
So why do people give one?
For the same reason people give a song, a poem or a framed photograph: it is not about owning anything. It gives someone a place in the sky to look at and think of you, or of someone they have lost. Many people find that comforting, especially for an anniversary, a new baby, or in memory of a parent.
How to tell an honest seller
- They say clearly that the name is symbolic and not recognised by the IAU.
- They tell you the star's catalogue number, so you can check it is real.
- They show whether the star can be seen by eye, or needs binoculars.
- Their prices include tax and delivery, and their refund rules are written down.
We try to do all four. Our terms and refund policy are on the site.