The International Astronomical Union (IAU) has officially named asteroid 149831 “Okeke” in tribute to the incredible Professor Francisca N. Okeke — a distinguished physicist from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka.
Prof. Okeke’s groundbreaking research on the ionosphere and its impact on climate and space weather has reshaped the understanding of atmospheric physics on a global scale.
This stellar recognition came thanks to the Catalina Sky Survey in Arizona, USA, where asteroid Okeke was first spotted, as shared by Daniel Bamberger of the Northolt Branch Observatories.
Asteroids are named in honor of people as a way to recognize their contributions, achievements, or impact in various fields.
The International Astronomical Union (IAU) is responsible for assigning official names to asteroids.
Some of the notable people asteroids were name in honour include Annie Maunder and Alice Everett, British astronomers who made significant contributions to the field,Albert Einstein, physicist, Isaac Newton, physicist and mathematician,Marie Curie, physicist and chemist
Others include Freddie Mercury, lead vocalist of Queen, Brian Wilson, musician and songwriter,Enya, Irish singer and songwriter.
Some actors and actresses who received such honour are Sean Connery, Scottish actor,
Jodie Foster, American actress and Andy Warhol, American artist.
It appears Prof Nneka Okeke is the first Nigerian female scientists or even the first Nigerian to get such honour.
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