internationalstarregistry.co

What It Is

International Star Registry (ISR), founded in 1979, is a vertical gift e-commerce platform headquartered in Illinois, USA, offering a unique “name a star” service. Users can purchase the naming rights to a star for themselves or someone else. ISR records the chosen name, date, and telescope coordinates in its published star catalog, Your Place in the Cosmos, which is protected by the U.S. Copyright Office. It should be emphasized that this naming is purely commemorative and is not recognized by the International Astronomical Union (IAU) or the scientific community.

Core Dimensions

• Platform/Service Type: A B2C vertical gift e-commerce platform offering emotional and commemorative virtual products plus physical add-ons.
• Product Selection/Supply Chain: The core “product” consists of unnamed star coordinates based on NASA’s Hubble Guide Star Catalog. The supply chain is converted into customized physical gift packages, including a 12x16-inch parchment certificate, star chart, astronomy booklet, and more.
• Logistics & Fulfillment: Domestic U.S. orders are primarily shipped via USPS (5–12 business days), with FedEx expedited shipping available (though 2-day delivery is no longer guaranteed). International shipping is available to more than 140 countries (4–14 business days). A PDF digital version can be provided after the order is processed.
• Payment Methods: Supports major credit cards, PayPal, and check payments.

Pricing

ISR uses a one-time purchase model with no hidden commissions. The basic Custom Star Kit costs $54 and includes an unframed certificate and star chart. The upgraded Deluxe Kit costs $109.95 and includes a custom-framed certificate and wallet card. The flagship Ultimate Kit costs $154.95 and includes professional framing for both the certificate and star chart. Shipping and handling (S&H) fees are additional.

Pros and Cons

Pros: Highly creative concept with strong emotional value; long brand history (since 1979) and BBB A+ rating; records are permanently preserved in a Swiss vault and with the U.S. Copyright Office; supports worldwide shipping and digital delivery.
Cons: The naming has no scientific validity and is purely a commercial commemorative service; the star cannot be seen with the naked eye (apparent magnitude >6, requiring a telescope); delivery times may be uncertain due to economic conditions and staffing factors.

Who It’s For

Best suited for individual consumers looking for a unique, romantic, or commemorative gift, such as for Valentine’s Day, birthdays, memorializing a loved one, or celebrating the birth of a newborn. Not suitable for those seeking scientific significance or serious astronomy enthusiasts.

Access in China

Unknown. Although the official domain uses .co, it primarily redirects to starregistry.com, and the review text does not mention accessibility from mainland China.