The answer depends on what "space" refers to. Different entities have named different things associated with the concept of "space".
1. The Term "Space":
The earliest recorded use of "space" to refer to the region beyond Earth's sky is attributed to John Milton in his 1667 work, Paradise Lost. The term "outer space" appeared later, with Alexander von Humboldt using it as an astronomical term in 1845. H.G. Wells further popularized the term in his writings during the 1900s.
2. Specific Spacecraft and Missions:
- NASA's Space Shuttle Endeavour: This shuttle's name was chosen by schoolchildren.
- GPS III SV-08 Satellite: This satellite was named after NASA trailblazer Katherine Johnson.
- NASA's Mars Helicopter Ingenuity: A student selected this name.
- Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope: Named after NASA's first Chief of Astronomy.
3. Organizations and Units:
The naming of various space organizations and units is often done by legislative bodies or governing entities. For example, the US Space Force was established through the National Defense Authorization Act. Awards, such as the "Outstanding Level II Electromagnetic Warfare Unit of the Year," are bestowed by respective commands.
4. Locations:
The Space Needle's name likely originated from its designers and promoters. The exact individual or group remains less clearly documented than the other examples above.
In summary, there's no single person who named "space." The term itself evolved through usage, while the names of specific spacecraft, missions, and organizations are chosen through various processes involving individuals, groups, and governing bodies.
