As an expert in the field of astronomy and space-related services, I can provide you with a detailed analysis of the legitimacy of star naming services, specifically focusing on the International Star Registry (ISR). It is important to understand the distinction between legal legitimacy and the scientific and astronomical community's recognition.

The Nature of Star Naming
Firstly, it's crucial to clarify that in an astronomical context, stars are not "named" in the way that we name people or places on Earth. Instead, they are identified by a catalog number or a combination of letters and numbers that correspond to their location in the sky. This system is universally recognized and used by astronomers worldwide.

**The Role of the International Star Registry (ISR)**
The ISR offers a service where individuals can purchase the right to name a star. However, it is important to note that this naming is not recognized by the International Astronomical Union (IAU), which is the body responsible for the official naming of celestial objects. The names given by the ISR are more of a novelty and carry no scientific weight.

Legal vs. Scientific Recognition
The statement you provided suggests that while the ISR's business model might be seen as unethical or misleading by some due to the lack of scientific recognition, it is not a scam in a legal sense. The company operates within the boundaries of the law, offering a product (the star naming certificate) for which people willingly pay.

Consumer Perception and Value
The value of a star naming from the ISR is subjective and largely depends on the consumer's perception. For some, the ability to give a star a personalized name as a gift or纪念 (memorial) holds sentimental value. For others, the lack of scientific recognition diminishes the appeal of such a purchase.

**Misleading Advertising and Ethical Concerns**
There have been concerns raised about the way star naming services are marketed. Critics argue that the language used can be misleading, implying a level of official recognition that does not exist. This has led to debates about the ethical implications of such businesses.

The Role of the IAU
The IAU is the organization that officially names celestial bodies, and their process is based on scientific criteria rather than commercial transactions. The names given by the IAU are used in research and education, and they are part of a long-standing tradition in astronomy.

Conclusion
In conclusion, while the ISR provides a service that is legal, it is not one that is recognized by the astronomical community. The names given to stars through their service are not used in scientific contexts and do not contribute to the body of astronomical knowledge. Whether one views the ISR's service as legitimate or not often comes down to personal values and the importance placed on scientific recognition versus the sentimental value of the service.

read more >>

The International Star Registry is not in the business of officially assigning star names; it is in the business of finding people willing to part with their money for a piece of paper that in a scientific sense means precisely nothing. ... Is ISR's star-naming business therefore a scam? No, not legally.Dec 26, 2001read more >>