What broader trend in space exploration naming is exemplified by integrating figures like Roerich into Mercury's atlas?

Moving beyond simple mythology to honor historical human achievement

The acknowledgment of figures such as Nicholas Roerich represents a significant evolution in how humanity names features within the solar system. Prior to this systematic cultural integration, nomenclature was predominantly driven by classical mythology or the names of early terrestrial observers. The modern approach, evident on Mercury's crater map, consciously integrates the achievements of human culture—encompassing both the arts and sciences—into the cartography of space. This practice transforms the cataloging of space features into a form of ongoing planetary memorialization, ensuring that Earthbound figures whose vision inspired space exploration are recognized.