Lunar craters can only be named after deceased scientists and historical explorers
While the Moon is covered in thousands of scars, you must be a pioneer of science or exploration—and no longer living—to claim one as your own.
The lunar surface acts as a celestial hall of fame where the entry fee is a lifetime of discovery. Under the strict governance of the International Astronomical Union, every crater is a memorial dedicated to deceased scientists and historical explorers. This tradition turned into a deeply personal tribute during the Artemis 2 mission preparations, when a crater near the Glushko landmark was named Carroll to honor the late wife of astronaut Reid Wiseman.
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