FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Is naming a star really free?
Yes. Choosing the star, the digital certificate and the PDF with QR code are completely free. Only optional extras such as a printed certificate or a pendant will cost money.
Why is Sternschenker free – and why don’t you need a database?
Because only the International Astronomical Union (IAU) gives stars official names – so far only around 640. No private register, ours included, changes what science calls a star, so a central register would just be scenery. That’s why your whole star lives in your QR code, we have nothing to manage – and we can offer star naming for free.
Is the star name official?
No. Official star names are assigned solely by the International Astronomical Union (IAU). Naming a star is – with every provider – a symbolic gift.
Can a star be named more than once?
Yes. Since we don’t store any data, we don’t keep a register either. Your certificate is still yours alone: name, date and dedication make it unique.
What data do you store?
None. Name, date and dedication are written into the QR code or link in your browser. The part of the address after the # sign is not sent to our server. Details are in the privacy policy.
What if I lose the PDF?
As long as you have the link or the QR code, your digital certificate can be opened at any time. Since we store nothing, we cannot restore a lost PDF or link – so keep both safe. If in doubt, simply name the star again with the same details.
Can I really see my star in the sky?
All our stars are visible to the naked eye – under a dark sky and depending on location and season. The certificate shows hints on visibility from Central Europe.
Can I find my star in the sky with my phone?
Yes. On the certificate page, “Find the star in the sky” opens an AR view: hold your smartphone up to the sky and an arrow guides you to your star. Camera, sensor and location data stay on your device. Accuracy depends on your phone’s compass – the bright stars nearby help you get your bearings.
Can I change details later?
The certificate lives entirely inside the link. To change something, simply name the star again and you’ll get a new QR code and a new PDF to download.
Is the certificate tamper-proof?
No. Since there is no central register, any certificate can be recreated. That’s intentional: it is a personal gift, not proof of ownership.