David Bowie Gets His Own Commemorative Constellation

RIP David Bowie

Following the news of David Bowie’s passing, fans across the world struggled to come to terms with his death. As such an iconic figure, he marked the lives of many in countless ways.

Belgian astronomers have found one way to commemorate his life — by registering a constellation in his name. This constellation, found in the vicinity of Mars, counts seven stars and is appropriately in the shape of a lightning bolt.

Space, and references to the universe played an important part in Bowie’s life and career. His single Space Oddity was performed by Chris Hadfield aboard the International Space Station and the album starring his extraterrestrial rock star alter ego, Ziggy Stardust, is considered by Rolling Stones to be the 35th best album of all time. His space-themed hits also included Starman and Life on Mars.

The lightning bolt shape of the constellation references his appearance on the cover of his 1973 album Aladdin Sane with a red and blue lightning bolt painted across his face.

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In a statement about the constellation, Philippe Mollet from the MIRA Observatory said “it was not easy to determine the appropriate stars. […] Referring to his various albums, we chose seven stars — Sigma Librae, Spica, Alpha Virginis, Zeta Centauri, SAA 204 132, and the Beta Sigma Octantis Trianguli Australis — in the vicinity of Mars.”

A Stardust for Bowie tribute website lets visitors choose their favourite Bowie song and add it inside an image of the constellation.

Know anyone you’d like to name a star after? Memorial Star lets you do just that. For as little as $14.95, you can name a star in a constellation that is visible all year round!