FAQ

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How much does it cost to buy a star?

Naming a star is the gift of a lifetime, and packages start at just $59 plus shipping and handling for the standard unframed International Star Registry Custom Star Kit. This includes a lovely 12” x 16” parchment certificate of record, a large sky chart with the location of the star indicated, a booklet about astronomy, and a letter of congratulations. You can also select custom framing options and beautiful package add-ons are also available.(more)

Can I buy a star?

No one can sell stars, but you can put the name of someone special on a star! Each star named is unique and it is named forever. We permanently publish all of the names of the stars in the astronomical compendium Your Place in the Cosmos©, which is registered in the U.S. Copyright Office. This celestial catalog created by International Star Registry® is the only published listing of named stars in the world.

When I name a star, how long is it named for?

By publishing all of the star names with their telescopic coordinates, we have selected the most enduring method of recordation available. Each star name is permanently recorded in our book Your Place in the Cosmos©. The book is registered with the US Copyright Office and a copy of the book is stored in a vault in Switzerland. Additionally, we maintain your name in our database in perpetuity.

Are the other companies I find on the internet the same?

No. There are several imposter companies that are not affiliated with Star Registry at all. Each star we name is unique and is only named once. We produce the only permanent published catalog of named stars in the world. Our world famous certificate hangs proudly in millions of homes around the globe. We have been featured in movies, on television, in newspapers, and in magazines around the world. Our 45 year old company is a member of the Better Business Bureau with an A+ rating.

What can I name the star?

Most stars are given the name of the person or people you wish to honor. We also see many creative names and nicknames that have special meaning for the buyer and honoree. Except for some minor restrictions, the sky is the limit! The name can only be 35 spaces long. Also, the names must conform to our decency policy which states that the name cannot be obscene or vulgar. Characters from several other languages are supported, but emoji characters are not.

How do I buy a duplicate package?

Absolutely! We keep the stars’ information on file so you can order additional copies, framed or unframed, at any time. Just contact us at 1-800-282-3333 and we will be happy to help.

How will the recipient know the star package is from me?

When you buy a star package we will include an attractive gift enclosure card at no charge. Please indicate the name(s) to be signed to the card in the gift message section on the order page.

How do I buy a group for a couple or family?

Call us to arrange this special charting. Your stars will shine together forever. We offer to name two (or more) stars which appear near one another and mark them on both star charts. This is a romantic gift for couples, and also a meaningful gift for families. Each recipient receives the classic International Star Registry certificate with their name and the telescopic coordinates of the star named for them plus their own copy of sky chart with each star in the group indicated. A photographic sky chart may be added to the order as well, indicating the stars named. Up to 8 stars may be grouped together.

Can I buy an "extra bright" or binary star?

We are PROUD to say that we do not make these claims. Each star we name is unique, and we will never name your star again for someone else. Only 9,000-10,000 stars are considered to be visible (6 magnitude or brighter) under the most optimal conditions.

Delivery Questions

How long will it take to recieve my package?

Your star package will be shipped within 1-2 working days from when you order. When you select standard shipping in the U.S., packages are sent via USPS and are usually received in the continental US within 5-12 business days. You can also call our office at (800)282-3333 AFTER your order is processed, or email [email protected] to receive a PDF of your package via email.

If I order a star gift for someone overseas, when will it arrive?

Orders sent outside of the US are sent UPS or Global Post International Service. In most cases packages will arrive to the destination in 7-10 business days. You will receive your tracking number in your email when your package ships. If you do not see it in your inbox, please check your spam or junk folder.

My package was damaged, can it be replaced?

Yes. If your package was damaged during the original shipment, we will send a replacement package at no charge. Rather than inconveniencing you by requesting a return, you may be asked to send pictures of the damaged contents and outer packaging with mailing label to [email protected] so we can contact the carrier.

If I am not happy with the package, may I return it?

Yes. If you are not completely satisfied, you may return your product for a full refund, minus the S&H (shipping and Handling). We want you to appreciate our products and if you are not happy, then we are not happy.

I need to reach International Star Registry customer service?

Please give us a call at 800-282-3333 M-F 8:30AM – 5PM Central Time. Outside of the US, please call +1-847-546-5533. If you prefer email, please email [email protected]

Star Locations and Star Naming

How do I name a star in a specific area of the sky?

Yes, the sky is mapped into 88 constellations, and you may select any constellation you like. Zodiac signs are very popular. There are also many other constellations familiar to avid stargazers! If you cannot choose a constellation, don’t despair, we will be happy to select a constellation for you viewable from your location.

Can I pick a star location near another star?

Sure, many people would like to have the star they name near one named previously. Our staff is always happy to help. Please email our Customer Service department at [email protected] or phone us at 1-800-282-3333 for assistance. When ordering online, you may indicate your preference in the field marked “Ship Notes”. What is a star constellation or area of the sky that means the most to you? We are happy to find an unnamed star located as close to that area as possible!

Can I pick a star that is visible from Europe, North America, and China?

Because these places are all situated north of the Equator, any of the northern constellations are visible from all of these places.

How do I name a star in a constellation that is visible from Australia, North America, and Europe?

Yes, when you name a star after someone, there are many terrific choices viewable from the Northern and the Southern Hemispheres. You may choose to name a star in the recipient’s zodiac sign or choose from many equatorial constellations, including Canis MajorOrionOphiuchusScutumSextansLepusMonocerosAquila, and Ophiuchus. Residents of Canada and Northern Europe may have difficulty finding some of these constellations along the southern horizon. We recommend the constellation Orion for them, since the bright stars of the belt make the constellation easy to locate.

There is a star number on my International Star Registry certificate. What is this?

The star’s coordinates are shown on your certificate. More precise telescopic coordinates are also shown on the white sky chart. What is a star coordinate’s meaning?

Just as locations on the Earth are indicated using Latitude and Longitude, stars in the sky are mapped using Right Ascension (RA) and Declination (D).

The Right Ascension of the star indicates the position of the star east to west in the sky. The Declination of the star indicates its position north to south.

Measurement of Right Ascension is made in hours, minutes and seconds, with the 0/24 hour mark occurring at the “First point of Aries”.

Measurement of Declination is made in degrees, hours, and minutes. The 0 degree marks the “Celestial Equator” (Roughly the northern most star in the belt of Orion) and extends 90 degrees north to the celestial North Pole (roughly the North Star) and -90 degrees south to the celestial South Pole.

Can I see my zodiac constellation from the U.S. ?

The zodiac signs are also called “sun signs”. The location of the sun throughout the course of the year aligns with the locations of the 12 zodiac constellations. All of the zodiac constellations can be seen from the US.

Is there a scientific number to my star?

All of the stars we name are derived from the NASA Hubble Guide Star Catalog, a resource of about 20,000,000 stars. If you would like the GSC number of a star you have named, customer service will be happy to help. When you name through International Star Registry NASA will continue to use their own designation rather than these star names.

What is the visual magnitude of my star, and how do I find it?

The magnitude of the stars available for naming varies depending on the population of stars in a constellation and the popularity of the constellation. Some of the constellations that are viewable from the northern hemisphere but are not chosen frequently, such as Lacerta and Vulpecula have stars available that are about 11.5 – 12 magnitude. Constellations in dark areas of the sky have smaller stars available to name.

Can I buy a star that can be seen with the naked eye?

The human eye can only see stars brighter than magnitude 6. Every star is unique. Just as the star you name will never be renamed, we cannot offer you a star that has been named for someone else. There are only about 9000 visible stars under the very best of conditions, and there are no unnamed visible stars.

When you order, you will be naming a star that is visible using a telescope or good binoculars. You may also email Customer Service and we can send you a link to find your star online using “Worldwide Telescope”. The precise telescopic coordinates, the names of the stars and the visual magnitude are printed on every International Star Registry star chart.

Do you have an online catalog of star names?

Yes, you may find the star you named.

We permanently record all of the star names in the book, Your Place in the Cosmos. You may contact Customer Service to find out in which volume your recorded star name appears.

Will the scientific community recognize my star name?

No. This is not a scientific listing of the stars. NASA and the scientific community will not use these star names.

We conceived of International Star Registry 40 years ago with an extremely original and charming idea. We found that there have been dozens of photometric and astrometric catalogs of the stars created over the years.

These catalogs are constantly being updated and are all valid catalogs of the stars intended for scientific use. Starting in 1979, we broke with scientific tradition and began assigning names to previously numbered stars, listing them alphabetically rather than by size and location, and publishing the names in a book as a permanent record.

The purpose of our listing is to honor a loved one with an amazing gift that it truly out of this world. Our catalog of star names in not intended for scientific use. In 1919, The International Astronomical Union (IAU) was established with the objective to promote and safeguard the science of astronomy. For scientific uniformity, it is the only body that names celestial objects for scientific use, which it does very infrequently.

We believe the stars overhead do not belong solely to the scientific community, but to everyone. We offer our star naming service as a unique gift idea. Your star name will be recorded in our book Your Place in the Cosmos© which is published and registered with the US Copyright Office. Like other published works, by publishing the star names with their location we preserve the record for future reference by our descendants for generations to come. Nearly 3 million star names have been published in 10 volumes to date.

Other Commonly Asked Questions

How can you name a star?

You may name a star anything you like up to 35 character spaces. Stars can be named, for individuals, couples, pets, boats, memorable experiences… When you name a star, the sky’s the limit! Please be aware that every name is permanently recorded so we will refuse or remove vulgar and offensive names from our star catalog.

What is the best star naming site?

By far, International Star Registry is the best site to use when you’re naming a star. we have named over 3 million stars since our inception in 1979. All other sites are copycats of us, and many of them pretend to be us through their unauthorized use of our Trademarks.

How much does it cost to name a star?

Our Custom Star Kit costs $59 plus shipping and handling. We offer a variety of upgrades to fit anyone’s taste and budget.

How do I find my star?

Once a star is named, it is named forever. All the star names are recorded in a series of astronomical catalogs called “Your Place in the Cosmos” which is permanently published and copyrighted in the US Copyright office. We also have a convenient online search tool. You can find the record of the star you named [email protected]

How many stars are named?

Since 1979, we have named over 3 million stars for special occasions and memorials. This is the perfect gift for Birthday’s. Christmas, Valentine’s Day, and newborns.

How do I name a star through NASA?

NASA does not name stars, but Star Registry is proud to have been asked to name many stars in honor of NASA Space Centers, administrators, and astronauts. Our International Star Registry catalog of stars, “Your Place in the Cosmos”, contains dozens of stars named for NASA staff and institutions.

Can I buy a star?

“Can I buy a star?” – The answer is yes. While one cannot physically own a star, it is possible to associate a specific name with a star through the International Star Registry (ISR), accessible through www.starregistry.com. 

International Star Registry is a U.S. based company established in 1979. We are a member of the Better Business Bureau with an A+ Rating. 10 volumes of our star catalog have been published and recorded in the United States Copyright office since 1979. NASA will not be using this new name. This unique catalog of the stars is not a listing intended for scientific use and is not recognized by astronomers. The stars are recorded in this way as a lasting meaningful tribute to someone who shines brightly in your life. (more)

Is star naming real?

Yes, you can name an actual star with International Star Registry. Call us at 800-282-3333 or visit us online at www.starregistry.com.

How to Name a Star?

Below is a simplified walkthrough of how you can name a star with ISR: 

  • Navigate to the official website: www.starregistry.com. 
  • Browse the different packages offered. Each comes with varying inclusions, often containing items such as certificates, star charts, and other products associated with your chosen star. 
  • Once you’ve decided on a package, you’ll be asked to submit the name you wish to assign to a star. 
  • After successful payment and submission of the desired name, the star and its designated name will be included in the ISR’s ‘Your Place in the Cosmos‘. This is a unique, published listing of star names that’s registered with the U.S. Copyright Office, the only one of its kind. 
  • Upon completion of the process, you’ll receive a certificate that notes the name of your star and its astronomical coordinates.  (more)

What is the Official Site for Naming Stars?

www.starregistry.com stands as the most recognized site in the world of naming stars. This platform allows enthusiasts, researchers, and even casual browsers to explore, name, and learn about the celestial bodies in our night sky. Since 1979, International Star Registry has named over 3 million stars and has published multiple volumes of Your Place in the Cosmos‘, the only copyrighted and published listing of star names in the world and can be found in the US Copyright office.  (more)

Can you Name a Star?

Yes, Starregistry.com, managed by the International Star Registry (ISR), does indeed provide individuals with an opportunity to name a star. ISR has named over 3 million stars for celebrities, dignitaries, and individuals over the last 45 years. (more)

How Much Does It Cost to Name a Star?

The question “How much does it cost to name a star?” – It’s $54 at International Star Registry. Naming stars through the platform provided by the International Star Registry (ISR) via www.starregistry.com is a service that over 3 million people have enjoyed. (more)

How to Name a Star After Someone?

Here is a general outline of how one can go about naming a star after someone using ISR: 

  • Visit the official website, www.starregistry.com. 
  • Choose from a range of options, which vary in price and accompanying items (starting at $54). These packages include items such as a certificate, a sky chart pinpointing the star’s location, a letter of congratulations, and other related merchandise. 
  • After selecting your desired package, you’ll be prompted to provide the chosen name for your star. This is the moment where you can input the name of the person you wish to honor. 
  • Once the payment has been processed and the name has been submitted, the star’s new name will be recorded in the ISR’s ‘Your Place in the Cosmos‘, the only copyrighted and published listing of star names. 
  • You will receive a certificate which states the name of the star, along with the coordinates of its location in the sky. (more)

Can You Buy a Star?

You can buy a star package from International Star Registry for $59. You cannot officially own the star (It’s too hot to handle!), but you can engage in the process of naming a star  through the International Star Registry (ISR), via its official site, www.starregistry.com.  (more)

How to Buy a Star in the Sky?

Here’s a step-by-step guide to this process: 

  • Go to the official website, www.starregistry.com. 
  • Browse through the selection of packages on offer, each of which comes with a variety of accompanying materials. These may include a certificate of record, a sky chart indicating your star’s location, and other commemorative items. 
  • Once you’ve chosen your preferred package, you’ll be prompted to provide the name you wish to name the star. 
  • After the completion of the payment process and submission of the star’s name, your star will be included in the ISR’s ‘Your Place in the Cosmos‘. This is a unique listing of star names that is copyrighted and registered with the U.S. Copyright Office. 
  • You will receive your chosen materials, including a certificate noting the name of your star and its astronomical coordinates. (more)

Is Naming a Star Legitimate?

Yes, www.starregistry.com, the official website of International Star Registry (ISR), allows individuals to name a star. ISR maintains the only published listing of these named stars, which is registered with the U.S. Copyright Office The registration in the Copyright Office provides copyright protection to ISR’s published listing which is a scientifically accurate, and valid listing of stars.  (more)

How Much Does a Star Cost?

The price of a star starts at $59 and brings one face-to-face with the intersection of astronomy and sentiment. While it’s not possible to physically own a star (It’s way too hot!), you can name a star with the International Star Registry (ISR) found on www.starregistry.com. (more)

How do you Buy a Star?

For those who wish to name a star the International Star Registry (ISR) provides a platform where individuals can symbolically ‘buy’ a star. This process, available through starregistry.com, doesn’t mean literal ownership of a star but allows a person to link a chosen name to a star (more)

Can you Name a Star?

Yes, Starregistry.com, managed by the International Star Registry (ISR), does indeed provide individuals with an opportunity to name a star. ISR has named over 3 million stars for celebrities, dignitaries, and individuals over the last 45 years. 

How to Buy a Star for Someone?

You can name a star via the International Star Registry (ISR) found at www.starregistry.com. This unique service can make for a thoughtful, personalized gift or gesture for someone special. (more)

How to Purchase a Star?

The act of purchasing a star taps into our enduring fascination with the cosmos. While no one can physically own a star, the International Star Registry (ISR), available at www.starregistry.com, allows you to name a star, this creates a unique, personal connection with the night sky. (more)

How Much is it to Buy a Star?

For $59 The concept of ‘buying’ a star fascinates millions and symbolizes a connection between us and the universe. International Star Registry (ISR), available at www.starregistry.com, offers a service to name stars.  (more)

How much to Buy a Star?

The question about how to ‘buy’ a star through the International Star Registry (ISR) points to the allure of the cosmos. This service, available on www.starregistry.com, does not involve actual ownership of a star, but it does allow individuals to name a star and have the name Published permanently in the astronomical compendium Your Place in the Cosmos. Package prices start at $59

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