Brains On! Science podcast for kids
How do we name things in space? The quest to name a quasi-moon!
Aug 20, 2024
Latif Nasser, a co-host of Radiolab, takes us on a whimsical journey into the peculiar world of naming celestial bodies. Discover the quirky story behind a mysterious quasi-moon near Venus called Zoozve, and how it sparked Latif’s quest for answers. He discusses the significance of naming in astronomy, shares amusing anecdotes, and invites young listeners to participate in a fun naming contest for a quasi-moon. Plus, enjoy playful sound guessing games that add an exciting twist to your exploration of space!
36:47
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Quick takeaways
- Naming celestial bodies connects humanity to the cosmos, allowing participation in space exploration, exemplified by the quasi-moon naming contest.
- The unique behaviors of quasi-moons challenge traditional astronomical classifications, enriching our understanding of celestial mechanics and orbital dynamics.
Deep dives
Origins of Planet Names
Most planets in the solar system are named after ancient Roman gods and goddesses, a tradition that has persisted through centuries. Mercury, for instance, is named after the swift messenger of the gods due to its rapid orbit around the Sun, while Venus is associated with the goddess of love and beauty, reflecting its bright appearance in the sky. Earth stands apart in this naming convention, deriving its name from Old English and Germanic terms for 'ground' rather than a deity. Mars, on the other hand, was named for the god of war, connected to its reddish hue which resembles blood.
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