A distant, exploding star and an orbiting pair of spiral galaxies will now be known by a string of numbers after NASA decided to review the use of "insensitive" and "actively harmful" astronomical nicknames. The planetary nebula NGC 2392, located some 5,000 light years from Earth, has been called the "Eskimo Nebula" by scientists since it was first observed in 1787 by the astronomer William Herschel. (Submitted by Norma Dunning)'A wonderful move'The change comes amid growing calls to review racist nicknames and mascots in professional sports and business. The twin galaxies NGC 4567 and NGC 4568 in the Virgo cluster will also now be referred to by their catalogue numbers. While the space agency committed to reviewing other nicknames in consultation with "diversity, inclusion and equity experts," many will likely not be affected.

Source: CBC News August 07, 2020 18:00 UTC