What name did astronomer William Herschel originally give Uranus when he discovered it in 1781?
Herschel
Britannia
Neptune
George’s Star
Fact: When William Herschel discovered Uranus in 1781, it was the first new planet identified with a telescope, expanding the known boundaries of the solar system. Herschel initially named it Georgium Sidus (“George’s Star”) to honor King George III of Britain, his royal patron. However, this name was unpopular outside England, and other astronomers pushed for a more universal title. Eventually, the planet was renamed Uranus, after the ancient Greek sky god, maintaining the tradition of naming planets after classical deities.
Correct Answer: George’s Star