how much to buy a star

2 min read 31-01-2025

How Much Does it Cost to Buy a Star? The Truth About Naming Stars

Have you ever dreamt of owning a piece of the cosmos? The idea of buying a star and naming it after someone special is romantic, but the reality is a bit more complex. The short answer is: you can't actually buy a star in the legal sense. No organization can legally grant ownership of a celestial body. However, several companies offer "star naming" certificates as gifts, raising important questions about what you're actually purchasing.

What You Can Buy: A Certificate, Not a Star

Companies offering star naming services sell a certificate that symbolically names a star. This certificate usually includes the star's coordinates and a registry number. The price varies widely, ranging from a few dollars to hundreds, depending on the company and the "level" of the certificate. These prices are primarily driven by the perceived prestige or "exclusivity" associated with the certificate, not any real legal ownership.

What you are getting: A novelty gift, a commemorative certificate, and maybe a registry entry in a private database.
What you aren't getting: Legal ownership of the star. This is simply not possible. Outer space is governed by international treaties that prohibit private ownership of celestial bodies.

The International Astronomical Union (IAU) and Star Naming

The only organization that officially names celestial objects is the International Astronomical Union (IAU). They are the internationally recognized authority on astronomical nomenclature. The IAU doesn't sell star names; they assign names based on scientific discovery and established naming conventions. Any star name offered by a commercial company is not recognized by the IAU.

Understanding the "Star Registry"

Many companies maintain their own "star registries." These are essentially private databases where they record the names assigned by their customers. These registries have no official standing within the scientific community and don't grant ownership rights. Essentially, you're paying for a personalized keepsake and a place in a private database.

Alternatives to Buying a Star:

If you're looking for a unique and meaningful gift representing the cosmos, consider these alternatives:

Donate to a space-related charity: Support organizations advancing space exploration, research, or education.
Purchase a telescope: Allow the recipient to explore the night sky and discover their own celestial wonders.
Commission a personalized piece of artwork: Capture a star or constellation in a painting, sculpture, or other artistic medium.
Plant a tree: A symbolic gesture of lasting growth and connection to nature.

In Conclusion:

While the idea of buying a star is appealing, it's important to understand the reality. You can purchase a symbolic certificate, but you won't gain legal ownership of a star. This lack of legal ownership is due to international treaties and the fact that the IAU is the sole authority for officially naming celestial bodies. Consider the alternatives that offer a meaningful and lasting remembrance without the misconception of actual star ownership. Remember, the true beauty of the stars lies in their shared wonder, not private possession.