How to Buy a Star in Australia

Although a number of commercial businesses will offer to sell you a star or allow you to name a star after a loved one, for a fee of course, the reality is no one owns the stars, so no one can sell one to you in Australia or anywhere else. The International Astronomical Union is the only internationally recognized body in the world with the authority to name stars, and they do not sell that right to anyone for any price. Rather than shelling out AUD $198 or more for a piece of parchment, you can easily claim a star for yourself or a loved one and save the cash for something more substantial. If, however, you wish to pay a third party for a novelty gift of a star, the procedures are easy enough.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Computer with Internet Access
• Telescope
• Printer

How to Buy a Star in Australia

1. Determine the company you wish to use for your star purchase. Several companies have Australian branches and will do business in Australian currency. These companies can easily be found by doing an Internet search using the search string, "buy a star Australia."
2. Determine which 'gift package' best meets your needs and budget. These packages range from the basics of a personalized certificate and star chart, to more elaborate plans that include custom framing.
3. Choose the name you wish the star to be called. Choose the date on which you wish the star to be registered. Choose the constellation in which you wish your star to be located. Some companies will allow you to choose a star by its coordinates in the sky.
4. Fill out the company's order form online or print out a copy of the order form, fill it out and mail it to the appropriate address along with your payment information.
5. Alternately, you can wait for a clear night. Drive to a location several miles outside the city to avoid light pollution with can obscure the stars.
6. Look through the telescope at the stars. Find one you like. Note any clearly defined reference points in the sky, such as constellations, that will help you identify the star in the future. Avoid planets and the moon since they move and will not always be in the same location. Claim the star for yourself or a loved one.
7. Return to your home. Perform an Internet search for Star Charts. There are numerous websites that will produce charts of the night sky from your area.
8. Print out a chart of the night sky. Circle the star you have chosen. Print a certificate claiming ownership of the star. It is just as valid as any certificate provided by any commercial enterprise purporting to sell or name a star.