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Scientists can’t resist giving absurd names to even the most serious, expensive instruments. If you think there are some silly telescope names out there, just check out the acronyms researchers are choosing for cameras and imagers.
Popular Science is looking for the best-named scientific instruments. We’re concentrating on physical devices, rather than algorithms, surveys, systems, or processes—which means amazing names like GANDALF (Gas AND Absorption Line Fitting algorithm) and GADZOOKS! (Gadolinium Antineutrino Detector Zealously Outperforming Old Kamiokande, Super!) won’t make the cut.