Say it right

Are all astronomers utterly ignorant of who Charon was and how the name is pronounced?

The moon of Pluto (or “Pludo”, as it is known in America) is named after the boatman who ferried souls across the Styx to Hades. The name is pronounced “Care -un”.

However, the American and British astronomers, as well as the BBC Sky at Night reporter, think that it is pronounced as Sharon, like the girl at the local chip shop.

Has knowledge of classical mythology sunk so low?

Andrew HN Gray

Edinburgh