# Radio Network Re-Namings New Mexico's 'Very Large Array' Asks the Public for a More Creative Name By Omar Yusuf | Published 2011-10-17 | Tech Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/very-large-array References: [io9](http://io9.com/5849878/help-astronomers-come-up-with-a-better-name-for-the-very-large-array) & [metousiosis](http://metousiosis.com/2009/04/03/the-very-large-array-at-sunrise/) It's strange that the Very Large Array, the world's biggest and most famous [radio telescope](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/advanced-telescope-design), has such a weak, uninspired name. Coinciding with the renovations occuring at the site, the [National Science Foundation](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/nuclear-magnetic-resonance) has sent out a public appeal and is asking for a new, spiffy name for the telescopic site. The state-of-the-art instruments being installed at the Very Large Array (VLA) are taking the complex beyond its humble, star-gazing duties and giving the embedded researchers new tools to investigate outer space with. So it stands to reason, with bells and whistles being added, that the VLA needs a public appearance facelift, starting with a name change. If you've got an interesting moniker in mind, follow the link below to the National Science Foundation website and submit your suggestion! Remember, though, [the contest](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/power-to-explore) will end at 23:59 EST on December 1, 2011. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 0.4/10 - Popularity: 2% | Activity: 1% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 70% men, 30% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, Europe ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Tech](https://www.trendhunter.com/tech) > [Gadgets](https://www.trendhunter.com/gadgets) ## Key Themes ### What Makes This Trend Stand Out - **Crowdsourced Renamings:** There is a trend of organizations crowdsourcing new names to create more engaging and inspiring branding. - **Renaming to Reflect Advancements:** Organizations are renaming their facilities or products to better reflect the technological advancements and innovations they have undergone. - **Public Involvement in Rebranding:** More organizations are engaging the public and seeking their input in the process of rebranding to build a stronger connection and sense of ownership. ### Sectors Adopting This - **Astronomy and Space Research:** Renaming the Very Large Array presents an opportunity for innovative branding in the field of astronomy and space research. - **Tourism and Science Education:** The rebranding of the Very Large Array can create new opportunities for tourism and science education industries by attracting more visitors and fostering public interest. - **Marketing and Advertising:** The process of crowdsourcing a new name for the Very Large Array highlights the importance of creative and engaging marketing strategies in the industry. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [4K Smart Telescopes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/4k-smart-telescopes.md) - [App-Controlled Smart Telescopes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/evscope-equinox-2.md) - [Smart Personal Observatory Telescopes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/vaonis-hyperia.md) - [Crystal-Clear Smart Telescopes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/smart-telescopes.md) - [Global Space Craft Initiatives](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/nasas-latest-initiative.md) - [Rooftop-Mounted Space Telescopes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/celestron-origin.md) - [Portable AI Telescopes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/vizta-smart-and-portable-telescope.md) - [Automated Algorithm-Powered Telescopes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/smart-space-telescope.md) - [Domed Underground Sports Centers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/alma-complex.md)