ASTRONOMERS WANT TO HONOR TERRORIST VICTIMS WITH ASTEROIDS

ASTRONOMERS WANT TO HONOR TERRORIST VICTIMS WITH ASTEROIDS

SOCORRO, N.M. (Wireless Flash) – The victims of last week’s terrorist attacks might be immortalized on asteroids if astronomers and space buffs have their way. More than 5000 asteroids in the universe need to be named and several scientists want them dedicated to the victims of the Pentagon and World Trade Center attacks. Liverpool-based scientist Benny Peiser figures the tribute would be universal because the victims came from more than 40 countries. Still, some astronomers worry the planetary plan wouldn’t be practical. Dr. Bryan Marsden of the International Astronomical Union’s asteroid-naming committee says the naming rights to asteroids belong to the individuals who discover them and he fears someone might accidentally name asteroids after the perpetrators. Marsden says the IAU plans to announce a “more collective tribute” to the victims October 2.

Tue 09-18-01