As if political correctness couldn’t be any more absurd. Now, NASA is planning on removing names of planets deemed ‘offensive’  to those who actually care about the ‘heavenly bodies’ named by humans on planet Earth. At this point, we may have heard it all! NASA has an administrator for “diversity and equal opportunity”? Aren’t there laws already in place for that?

NASA’s Associate Administrator for Diversity and Equal Opportunity, Stephen T. Shih:

“These nicknames and terms may have historical or culture connotations that are objectionable or unwelcoming, and NASA is strongly committed to addressing them.”

Galaxies, planets and heavenly bodies are all under scrutiny to make sure they don’t offend earthly beings.  NASA released a statement last Thursday to explain:

The Houston Chronicle reported that NASA will now refer to all planets and heavenly bodies by their scientific names.

For example, the Eskimo Nebula (pictured below) discovered in 1787 by William Hershel, will only be referred to as NGC 2392.

The NASA statement explained their reasoning:

“As the scientific community works to identify and address systemic discrimination and inequality in all aspects of the field, it has become clear that certain cosmic nicknames are not only insensitive but can be actively harmful. NASA is examining its use of unofficial terminology for cosmic objects as part of its commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.”

NASA’s Associate Administrator for Diversity and Equal Opportunity, Stephen T. Shih:

“These nicknames and terms may have historical or culture connotations that are objectionable or unwelcoming, and NASA is strongly committed to addressing them.”

The so-called “Siamese Twins Galaxy” will likewise be known only as NGC 4567 and NGC 4568.

Does NASA go too far? We think so. We’d like to know what you think.