2 More Asteroids Named After Chosun Scientists

Two asteroids discovered by local astronomers have been named after prominent Korean scientists, the 18th century scientist Hong Dae-yong, and the 19th century geographer Kim Jeong-ho.

The Korea Astronomy and Space Science Institute said Friday the names were approved by the Minor Planet Center of the International Astronomical Union.

A team at the institute spotted the asteroids using a 1.8-meter optical telescope at the Mt. Bohyun observatory in North Gyeongsang Province in 2001 and 2002.

"We were able to make the discovery thanks to our efforts with Yonsei University to develop and run a remotely operated system for tracking minor planets," the institute said. "We will continue to name other asteroids we find in the future after great Korean scientists."

So far, five celestial bodies discovered from here have been named after prominent Koreans -0 Choi Moo-seon, Lee Choen, Chang Young-shil, and Lee Soon-ji, all Chosun period scientists, and Heo Jun, a Chosun period doctor.