Tell NERC to Respect the Public's Opinion in Naming Its New Royal Research Ship

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In 2019, the United Kingdom's high-tech polar research vessel will begin exploring the Arctic and Antarctic regions. Before its maiden voyage, it needs a name.

Britain's Natural Environment Research Council (NERC), who run the UK's polar research program, hoped to stir excitement for the expedition by asking the public to help name the watercraft. NERC put up a poll and teased, “imagine one of the world's biggest research labs travelling to the Antarctic with your suggested name proudly emblazoned on the side!” One name stood out, receiving far more votes than any other: RRS Boaty McBoatface.

The name was so popular voters crashed the NERC's website, according to the _Guardian_. When the poll closed on April 16, 2016, RRS Boaty McBoatface accrued more than 124,000 votes — about 84,000 more than the runner-up. Alas, not everyone was convinced of the name's brilliance.

After the poll, Science Minister Jo Johnson suggested decision-makers "want a name that fits the gravity and the importance" of the boat's purpose. The NERC plans to review all 7,000 submissions before its final decision — which ultimately resides with NERC's Chief Executive Duncan Wingham, who has not directly commented. If he stands with his colleagues, Wingham may choose to shipwreck RRS Boaty McBoatface before she even sets asea.

Polar research is vital to our understanding of climate change and the health of the world. Giving schools, parents, and other fans a chance to explore with the charismatic RSS Boaty McBoatface gives the NERC a whole new platform to share the science behind these important issues. If the downside is being undignified, imagine the multitude of upsides — not the least of which is an engaged and interested public.

**Urge Chief Executive Duncan Wingham to embrace public enthusiasm, and christen the NERC's new vessel the RRS Boaty McBoatface.**