Why are parts of the moon and mars named after greek and roman mythology?

Question

I need to know for an assignment - how come they're named after mythology and places and gods if they have no relevance?? Please help!!

Thank you

Answer 1

All the planets are named for Roman Gods. Their Moons are named for Greek mythological characters (usually related to the Greek counterpart of the Roman god for whom the planet is named)

The exception is Uranus - which was the first planet to be discovered.

The tradition of planet and moon naming is pretty old, so got applied to features on planets etc.

We are now branching out into other pantheons (e.g. Quaoar and Makemake)

Answer 2

I guess the Chinese and the Egyptians called them something else.   Greek and Roman literature have influenced things in the Western world for the past 2000 + years.

Answer 3

Because it's less romantic to say, "Ooh, it's so beautiful, just look at the full sky object #001 tonight!"

Gotta name 'em something.

Answer 4

Nomenclature for astronomical features are decided by the IAU (International Astronomical Union).  Greek and Roman names are used for many of the planets to honor of the ancient Greek and Roman astronomers who discovered and researched these celstial bodies.