names for planets made up

Guri Bee

2 min read

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22-10-2024

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Beyond Earth: A Guide to Naming Your Made-Up Planets

Have you ever dreamt of exploring distant worlds, each with its own unique character and beauty? Maybe you're building a fantasy world, crafting a sci-fi story, or simply indulging your imagination. Whatever the reason, you'll need names for your planets!

But choosing a name that captures the essence of a planet is no easy feat. To inspire your own creative process, we'll explore some ideas gleaned from the depths of the internet, with special thanks to the brilliant minds on GitHub.

Inspiration from the Stars:

Question: What are some good names for planets?

Answer: From a GitHub repository:

• Planetary names inspired by color: "Azure", "Rubedo", "Viridian", "Cerulean"
• Names based on mythological figures: "Aphrodite", "Ares", "Odin", "Isis"
• Names reflecting geographical features: "Borealis", "Cimmeria", "Terra Nova", "Elysium"

Analysis:

These names work well for planets because they evoke specific feelings and imagery. "Azure" conjures up a world with vast oceans, while "Rubedo" might hint at a planet with a reddish, volcanic surface. Using mythological figures adds an air of mystery and intrigue, while geographical names suggest specific landscapes.

A Deeper Dive into Naming Conventions:

Question: Are there any patterns or conventions for naming planets?

Answer: From a GitHub discussion:

• Real-world influence: Planets are often named after gods, goddesses, and mythical figures from different cultures. This adds a layer of historical and cultural context.
• Phonetic appeal: Easy-to-pronounce and memorable names are key for readers to engage with your fictional world.
• Thematic consistency: If you're creating a whole solar system, consider naming planets with a common theme. For example, all planets could be named after different types of trees.

Analysis:

These conventions help to create a sense of realism and depth within your fictional world. Think about the history and culture of your planet and how it might influence naming choices. Remember, your goal is to create a name that not only sounds good but also hints at the unique characteristics of your planet.

Beyond the Basics:

Question: Can I use real-world celestial bodies for inspiration?

Answer: From a GitHub project:

• Consider the environment: If your planet is a gas giant, you might choose names like "Jupiter" or "Saturn."
• Think about its position: A planet close to its sun might have a name like "Mercury" or "Venus."
• Add a unique twist: Combine existing planet names or add a prefix or suffix to make them your own. Examples: "Aqua-Venus," "Nova-Jupiter."

Analysis:

Drawing inspiration from real-world planets is a great way to ground your fictional world. However, remember to make it your own by adding a unique spin.

Beyond the Basics:

Question: How can I make my planet names more memorable?

Answer: From a GitHub repository:

• Alliteration: "Zephyr", "Zest", "Zia"
• Assonance: "Eridanus", "Silvan", "Aether"
• Consonance: "Soren", "Cygnus", "Kestrel"

Analysis:

These literary devices can make your planet names sound more poetic and memorable. Don't be afraid to experiment with different sounds and rhythms to find what works best for you.

Your Turn to Create:

Now that you have some inspiration, it's your turn to create! Think about the key characteristics of your planet and how you can capture them in a name. Don't be afraid to combine different techniques and experiment until you find the perfect fit. Remember, the best names are often born from a combination of imagination and careful consideration.