Neptune was named after the Roman god of the sea, a suggestion made by Urbain Le Verrier.
The naming of the planet Neptune is closely tied to its historic discovery. Unlike other planets known since ancient times, Neptune was the first planet located through mathematical calculations.
- Prediction: The French mathematician Urbain Le Verrier made detailed predictions about the location of an unknown planet based on irregularities observed in Uranus's orbit.
- Discovery: Using Le Verrier's calculations, German astronomer Johann Galle discovered the planet in 1846.
- Naming: Following its discovery, various names were proposed. Le Verrier himself suggested naming the planet after the Roman deity associated with the sea, Neptune. This name was fitting, perhaps suggested by its deep blue appearance (though its appearance wasn't known at the time of suggestion, the name was chosen and stuck). The name Neptune honors the Roman god of the sea.
This method of discovery via calculation and subsequent naming by one of the key figures involved in its prediction makes Neptune's naming story unique among the planets discovered earlier.
