Colbert wins support for naming ISS module after him

Nation: The International Space Station needs me!

NASA ran an online poll to get the public’s input. They were looking for a name for the (soon to be launched) Node 3 of the International Space Station.

Colbert won the contest, but…

The winning name in the poll was: “Colbert.” TV comedian/mock newsman urged his viewers to write in his name in the poll. They did, and “Colbert” beat the NASA suggestions, “Serenity”, by a large margin.

But NASA gave itself an out. They said that NASA reserves the right to make the final selection of a name for the module. And Colbert is worried that they won’t chose his name.

Congressman and astronomer speak out

But a Philadelphia Congressman and, to a lesser degree, an important astronomer, have spoken up for naming the module after Colbert.

Congressman Chaka Fattah (D-PA) issued a statement, which included this:

“NASA decided to hold an election to name its new room at the International Space Station and the clear winner is Stephen Colbert. The people have spoken, and Stephen Colbert won it fair and square — even if his campaign was a bit over the top.”

Derrick Pitts, chief astronomer for Franklin Institute, when asked by Colbert what he thought about naming the module “Colbert” said: “I think that’s something that NASA’s going to have to figure out, but you know, it could be a good idea.”

Consolation prize?

If NASA rejects the name Colbert for Node 3, another possibility has been offered. Using the name Colbert for the new space toilet aboard Node 3.