TEHRAN (ISNA)- An Iranian name was chosen for an asteroid out of 1500 other names suggested in an international campaign to name LA1986(3988) minor planet.
Near Earth Objects (NEO) Project Group of Space Generation Advisory Council held an international campaign last year to name the asteroid in which citizens across the world could suggest their names.

Homa Saman-Abadi and Foad Kordani from Iran took part in the campaign, suggesting the name Homa.

International Astronomical Union chose the name 'Homa' for the minor planet.

In Iranian myth, Homa is the name of the bird who brings happiness for anyone who sees it. It also sends the message of happiness.

Homa Saman-Abadi whose name has been selected for the small planet, said, "I am so happy that my name has been picked. I want to seize the opportunity and express my feelings�. I wished that the planet will bring happiness for anyone who sees it, and it can be the source of love, peace, joy and pleasure for people on the earth."

Director of Near Earth Objects (NEO) Project Group of Space Generation Advisory Council Alex Karl called the campaign a 'great success'.

He also congratulated the two Iranians who offered the name Homa for the planet.

Citizens of 85 countries took part in the event.

LA1986 (3988), named 'Homa' was discovered on June 4, 1986 in Palomar Observatory in California.

By ISNA

 

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