Political correctness has now expanded into space, where NASA says planets, galaxies, and other celestial bodies will no longer be referred to with “offensive” nicknames.
In a press release Thursday, the space agency said that all planets and celestial bodies will be mentioned only by their scientific names, the Houston Chronicle reported.
Under the new rules, the “Eskimo Nebula”, discovered in 1787 by William Hershel, will only be named NGC 2392.
The so-called “Galaxy of Siamese Twins” will also be known only as NGC 4567 and NGC 4568.
“As the scientific community works to identify and address systemic discrimination and inequality in all aspects of the field, it has become clear that certain cosmic nicknames are not only insensitive but can be actively harmful,” the agency said in a statement. press.
“NASA is examining the use of unofficial terminology for cosmic objects as part of its commitment to diversity, fairness and inclusion.”
NASA Associate Administrator for Diversity and Equal Opportunity Stephen T. Shih agreed, saying that “these nicknames and terms may have historical or cultural overtones that are objectionable or objectionable, and NASA is firmly committed to addressing them. “.
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