Science fiction names have a job to do. They need to sound like they come from a future or a far-off world, but they still have to be easy to read on a page or say at a gaming table. The best ones mix something familiar with something a little strange.
Below you’ll find original sci-fi name ideas for heroes, aliens, androids, villains, starships and planets, ready for novels, tabletop campaigns and games. Want a handle with the same energy? Try the gamer tag generator, or roll character names with the generator at the bottom of this post.
Jump to: Space captain and hero names · Alien names · Android and AI names · Space villain and pirate names · Starship names · Planet and moon names
Space captain and hero names
Human names with a futuristic edge for pilots, captains and rebels.
Alien names
Names that sound like they come from another world. Unusual letter pairs help.
Android and AI names
Names for robots, ship computers and synthetic people.
Space villain and pirate names
Menacing names for warlords, pirates and corporate tyrants.
Starship names
Names for ships, from tiny freighters to flagships.
Planet and moon names
Worlds for your story’s map.
Quick tips
- Mix a familiar first name with an unusual surname, like Kade Voss or Mira Castellan, for human characters in the future.
- For aliens, use rare letter pairs like XY, QH, ZZ or an apostrophe, but keep the name short enough to read.
- Android names often come from model numbers, acronyms or a single abstract word like Echo, Axiom or Lumen.
- Starship names usually sound like ideas or promises: Vigilant Dawn, Last Light, Iron Meridian.
- Keep the naming style consistent for each culture or species so your universe feels real.
Generate more names for free
Roll fresh names below and tap the heart to save your favorites. Building a whole galaxy? The kingdom name generator works great for star empires too.
Frequently asked questions
What is a good sci-fi name?
Kade Voss, Mira Castellan, Nova Kessler and Elara Quint are strong sci-fi character names. For aliens, try Xyrrith, Vexilaan or Ilyxa.
How do I make an alien name sound alien?
Use letter combinations that are rare in English, like XY, ZZ or QH, add an apostrophe or a doubled vowel, and keep a clear rhythm so readers can still say it.
What should I name my robot or AI?
Try a model number like UNIT-7, an acronym like Tess, or one abstract word like Echo, Cipher or Axiom.
What are good spaceship names?
The Wandering Lark, Last Light, Vigilant Dawn and Iron Meridian are good starship names. Many ships are named after ideals, places or heroes.
Can I use these names in my book or game?
Yes. These names are original ideas and free to use in novels, games and campaigns. Do a quick search to make sure a name is not already a famous character.
Keep reading: Gamer tag ideas, Clan names, How to name a fantasy kingdom.
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