What are comets commonly named after?

Comets are commonly named after the person or persons who first discovered them. This practice honors the contributions of individuals who have made significant observations in astronomy. For instance, Halley's Comet is named after Edmond Halley, who calculated its orbit and predicted its return. Similarly, other comets have been named after their discoverers, which gives credit to their efforts in advancing our understanding of these celestial objects.

The other naming conventions mentioned do not generally apply to comets. While various celestial bodies, like constellations and some planets, may be associated with mythological figures or historical astronomers, comets specifically carry the names of their discoverers to acknowledge their role in revealing these impressive cosmic phenomena. This distinguishing factor helps identify and commemorate the individuals in the scientific community who significantly contributed to our astronomical knowledge.