The outer moons of Jupiter, like many other celestial bodies, are typically named by the International Astronomical Union (IAU). The IAU is the recognized authority responsible for assigning official names to celestial objects, including moons, planets, asteroids, and other astronomical bodies.
The process for naming the outer moons of Jupiter involves a set of guidelines established by the IAU. These guidelines often involve themes or categories related to Jupiter, its mythology, or other relevant aspects. For example, many of Jupiter's moons are named after characters from Greek and Roman mythology associated with Zeus (the Greek counterpart of Jupiter), as well as other mythological figures from different cultures.
Initially, the outer moons of Jupiter were given designations based on their discovery order. For instance, the first moon discovered after the four largest Galilean moons (Io, Europa, Ganymede, and Callisto) was named "Jupiter V." However, once these moons were officially confirmed and their orbits accurately determined, they were given individual names according to the IAU's naming guidelines.
The process of naming new outer moons of Jupiter involves proposals submitted to the IAU's Working Group for Planetary System Nomenclature. These proposals are typically made by the discoverers or research teams associated with the observations and discoveries of these moons. The proposals are evaluated, and if approved, the IAU assigns official names to the newly discovered moons.
Overall, the IAU plays a vital role in the naming of celestial bodies, including the outer moons of Jupiter, ensuring that a consistent and internationally recognized system is followed.