Star Fantasy Names

Alula, the palindromic name of the first double star to be identified as physically related to its twin, would make the perfect name for a first-born twin. Ideas (we're only half joking) for the second born: Aviva, Aziza, Otto. Alula is reminiscent of the unusual name chosen by Isla Fisher and Sacha Baron Cohen for their second daughter: Elula, a month name from the Hebrew calendar.

This lunar choice may intrigue parents searching for alternatives to Luna.

A relatively popular Arabic name that featured in the French Top 500 for much of the second half of the 20th century and into the 21st. It is also used as a given name in Turkey, Iran and Israel, as well as being a relatively common surname (also spelled Nader). Notable bearers include an 18th century Shah of Iran, a 19th century King of Afghanistan and a former Prime Minister of Jordan.

From the botanical name for common heather, Calluna vulgaris, which ultimately derives from the Greek kallos "beauty". A unique, nature-inspired route to the fashionable nicknames Callie and Luna.

Star name that could also be another spelling of Asia or Aja.

Of all the astrological names —think Leo, Aries, Gemini— Scorpio probably has the most dramatically potent presence, which could prove something of a burden to a young boy.

Cornelious is an elaborated spelling variant of Cornelius, a masculine name with ancient Roman roots. The name derives from the Roman clan name Cornelius, possibly stemming from the Latin word 'cornu' meaning 'horn.' Cornelius was a prominent name in Roman history, belonging to several notable figures including saints and a centurion mentioned in the New Testament who became one of the first Gentile converts to Christianity. Cornelious represents a less common spelling that adds an extra syllable to the traditional form. The name carries an air of distinction and classical sophistication. While never extremely popular in modern times, Cornelious maintains appeal among parents seeking a name with historical gravitas and a slightly uncommon quality.

After Leo, this is one of the most usable names in the zodiac: part ancient, part new-age, part high-tech. In the night sky, the constellation Gemini is present all year round in both hemispheres. It has been associated with twins since ancient times, and its two brightest stars are named Castor and Pollux after the twins of Greek mythology. It also has STEM connections: Project Gemini was a NASA spaceflight program before Apollo.

Donati is a distinguished Italian surname that can easily work as a first. The last name Donati is a patronymic from an ancestral Donato or may be a plural of Donato.

Has a nice fresh, early morning meaning, but not the most mellifluous of sounds. Also spelled Arpineh.

Lush and unusual.

A handsome Portuguese name derived from the old Germanic saint's name Audamar or Otmar. Especially common in Brazil.