Three asteroids named after Poles

Three new asteroids have been named after notable Polish figures by the International Astronomical Union. The asteroid (571957) Jacekwierzchoś honors Jacek Wierzchoś, a geomicrobiologist known for his work in extreme environments. The asteroid (864997) Józefmaj is named after Józef Maj, a Jesuit priest and former deputy director of the Vatican Observatory. Lastly, (880193) Sopoćko commemorates Michał Sopoćko, a Catholic priest known for his connection to Saint Faustina Kowalska. All three asteroids were discovered in various observatories and are located in the main asteroid belt.