How To Buy Your Own Star May 2026

The idea of "buying a star" is a popular gift gesture, but it is important to understand that No private company has the authority to rename a star; that power belongs exclusively to the International Astronomical Union (IAU), which uses coordinates and catalog numbers rather than names.

Located within a specific, recognizable constellation.

A pair of stars that appear to revolve around each other. how to buy your own star

A showing the exact coordinates (Right Ascension and Declination).

Most services offer different tiers based on how visible the star is: Standard Stars: Often only visible with a telescope. The idea of "buying a star" is a

Once purchased, you will typically receive: A Certificate of Registration with the new star name.

Decide on the name you want to register and a significant date (such as a birthday or anniversary) to be printed on the certificate. A showing the exact coordinates (Right Ascension and

Because these registries are private, different companies could "sell" the same star to multiple people.