Asteroid No 345871 was officially named "Xu Guangxian Star", with approval from the International Astronomical Union's Minor Planet Naming Committee. The asteroid was discovered on Aug 13, 2007, by the Purple Mountain Observatory of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, and was named in honor of Xu Guangxian, a scientist renowned for his contributions to rare earth chemistry and physics in China.
The orbital path and related parameters of “Xu Guangxian Star” are displayed on screen. [Photo/Tide News]
Born in 1920 in Shangyu district, Shaoxing, Xu was an academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, a prominent physical and inorganic chemist, and an esteemed educator. Known as the father of rare earths in China, he dedicated himself to the study of rare earth separation science and technology. His contributions played a significant role in advancing China's scientific progress and industrial development.
The naming of an asteroid is a globally recognized honor, with each name permanently approved after undergoing a rigorous evaluation process. To date, numerous asteroids have been named after Chinese scientists, standing as symbols of China's scientific achievements.
Officials from one of Shangyu's educational organization stated that they will seize the opportunity presented by the naming of "Xu Guangxian Star" to inspire young people to pursue scientific aspirations and to carry forward the spirit of scientists.
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