What is the significance of asteroid 7307 Takei being named after George Takei?

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In summary, an asteroid located between Mars and Jupiter has been renamed 7307 Takei in honor of actor George Takei, known for his role as Hikaru Sulu in the original "Star Trek" series and movies. Takei expressed his surprise and excitement upon finding out about the renaming, which occurred on Tuesday. The asteroid, formerly known as 1994 GT9, was discovered by two Japanese astronomers in 1994 and joins other asteroids named after figures from the "Star Trek" franchise, such as Gene Roddenberry and Nichelle Nichols. Other asteroids have also been named after science fiction authors Robert Heinlein and Isaac Asimov.
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... An asteroid between Mars and Jupiter has been renamed 7307 Takei in honor of the actor, best known for his role as Hikaru Sulu in the original "Star Trek" series and movies.

"I am now a heavenly body," Takei, 70, said Tuesday, laughing. "I found out about it yesterday. ... I was blown away. It came out of the clear, blue sky -- just like an asteroid." [continued]
http://www.cnn.com/2007/TECH/space/10/03/takei.asteroid.ap/index.html

:approve:
 
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The celestial rock, discovered by two Japanese astronomers in 1994, was formerly known as 1994 GT9. It joins the 4659 Roddenberry (named for the show's creator, Gene Roddenberry) and the 68410 Nichols (for co-star Nichelle Nichols, who played Lt. Uhura). Other main-belt asteroids have been named for science fiction luminaries Robert Heinlein and Isaac Asimov.
Cool! :approve:
 
  • #3
This is a wonderful tribute to George Takei and his contributions to science fiction and popular culture. It is fitting that an asteroid, a celestial body often associated with exploration and discovery, is named after an actor who portrayed a character on a mission to seek out new worlds and civilizations. Takei's impact on the world of science fiction and his advocacy for social issues make him a deserving honoree for this asteroid. Congratulations to Mr. Takei on this unique and exciting recognition.
 

1. What is Asteroid 7307 [George] Takei?

Asteroid 7307 [George] Takei is a small celestial body that orbits the sun in our solar system. It was discovered in 1994 and named after the famous actor and activist, George Takei.

2. How big is Asteroid 7307 [George] Takei?

Asteroid 7307 [George] Takei has a diameter of approximately 2.5 kilometers (1.6 miles). It is considered a medium-sized asteroid.

3. Is Asteroid 7307 [George] Takei dangerous?

No, Asteroid 7307 [George] Takei is not considered a threat to Earth. Its orbit does not cross paths with Earth's and it poses no risk of impact in the foreseeable future.

4. How was Asteroid 7307 [George] Takei named?

Asteroid 7307 [George] Takei was named after the actor and activist, George Takei, in recognition of his contributions to promoting science and space exploration. The naming was approved by the International Astronomical Union.

5. Can Asteroid 7307 [George] Takei be seen from Earth?

No, Asteroid 7307 [George] Takei is too small and far away to be seen with the naked eye from Earth. It can only be observed with powerful telescopes.

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