A New Celestial Honor for Saanich

In an exciting development for astronomy enthusiasts, an accomplished astronomer from Vancouver Island, Dave Balam, has made history by naming a newly certified asteroid after Saanich. This recognition not only immortalizes the name of this stunning municipality but also showcases Balam's significant contributions to the field of astronomy.

From Discovery to Official Recognition

Though Balam first identified the asteroid back in 2003 during a project in Hawaii, it just received its official designation this month. The process to label an asteroid is complex; it requires extensive tracking until astronomers can accurately predict its orbit, a task that can stretch over several years or even decades.

"Once the object has a defined orbit, the discoverer can choose a name that pays homage to a person or place," Balam explained during an interview.

The Asteroid: A Cosmic Neighbor

Named simply 'Saanich', this asteroid is about one kilometer in diameter—comparable to Mount Douglas. While relatively small in the grand scheme of celestial objects, Balam humorously notes that you wouldn’t want it landing on your roof!

Situated in the vast expanse between Mars and Jupiter, this asteroid is part of a legion of unique celestial bodies that Balam refers to as the 'building blocks of the solar system.'

A Career Spanning Decades

Balam's career as a professional astronomer spans an impressive 40 years, during which he has discovered around 700 asteroids. Over the years, he has named approximately 48 of them after local landmarks and notable figures, including 'Uvic', 'Tsawout' to honor the Tsawout First Nation, and 'Vicsympho' after the Victoria Symphony.

"These naming endeavors are not just for me; they pay tribute to Saanich and the individuals behind the names," said Balam, expressing his affection for the beautiful community he calls home.

A Legacy of Discovery and Education

Beginning his astronomical journey as a young volunteer at the Dominion Astrophysical Observatory, Balam quickly rose through the ranks, landing his first official job at the University of Victoria in 1976. Today, he operates the telescope at the Dominion Astrophysical Observatory remotely as part of the National Research Council Canada.

With 59 more asteroids pending names, Balam remarks, "It's a challenging process, but it's rewarding as they all come back, much like chickens returning to roost. I’ve dedicated decades to these discoveries, and now I look forward to the next opportunity to name them."

An Astounding Tribute to Saanich's Heritage

This naming event not only highlights Balam's long-standing dedication to astronomy but also enriches the cultural tapestry of Saanich. As the asteroid continues its journey through the cosmos, it serves as a reminder of the remarkable intersection between science, community, and heritage.