Aerostaticus

Authors: Susanne M Hoffmann

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Aerostaticus is a modern star name adopted by the International Astronomical Union in the IAU-Catalog of Star Names (IAU-CSN). Its origin is (modern) Latin. It is the name of the star eps Mic in constellation Microscopium.

Concordance, Etymology, History

This modern star name preserves the heritage of an early modern European constellation that was invented in the 18th century when new technology was impressing many people and astronomers aimed to represent some of the most stunning new vehicles among the stars.

The star Epsilon Microscopium was used for the naming, as WGSN identified it as brightest star within the area of the historical (now obsolete) constellation Globus Aerostaticus.

IAU Working Group on Star Names

The name was suggested to the IAU WGSN in 2023. It was discussed and adopted to the IAU-CSN on 16 July 2026.

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Reference

• References (general)
• References (early modern)
• Ian Ridpath's Star Tales – Globus Aerostaticus