Abstract:

Common names for deep-sky objects are a type of astronomical term. This study aims to fill the gap in research on the terminology of common names for deep-sky objects from a terminological perspective, ultimately providing ideas and suggestions for the review and standardization of these names. Based on 1 363 common names for deep-sky objects recorded in Stellarium, we systematically studies their linguistic structure, naming patterns, and academic recognition through methods such as data statistics, linguistic analysis, classical case analysis, and problem discussion. Our results show that common names for deep-sky objects exhibit significant regularity and diversity in word formation, syllables, and word meaning. Classical naming examples reflect characteristics such as conventionality, conciseness, scientificity, systematicity, and nationality of scientific terms. Additionally, the study reveals some major issues and reasons in the naming of these common names. The research highlights the necessity of the review and standardization work for common names of deep-sky objects, offering suggestions on the scope of word collection, naming methods, and exegesis for the collection and review work, and providing references for other common naming work.

Key words: astronomical terms, deep-sky objects, common names, terminology review