Sánchez-Cano researched planetary ionospheres, solar wind interactions and heliophysics, and work on comet-planet interactions and space weather on small bodies throughout the Solar System.
Sheward analysed hypervelocity impacts on the lunar surface in order to characterise the Earth-Moon meteoroid environment and impact rates on the Moon.
Prof Leigh Fletcher, director of research at the university’s school of physics and astronomy, said: “We’re thrilled that Beatriz and Daniel have received this incredible honour.
“Naming an asteroid after a scientist is seen as one of the most prestigious forms of recognition in the field of astronomy because the name becomes permanently associated with the Solar System.
“That means that Asteroid 20685 Sánchez-Cano and Asteroid 20713 Sheward will be lasting tributes to Beatriz and Daniel, who have dedicated their careers to understanding the space environments of planets and other bodies throughout the Solar System.”
The pair join two other scientists from the department, Dr Chrysa Avdellidou and Prof Suzie Imber, who had asteroids named after them in 2021.
Prof Fletcher added the recognition was “exceptionally rare”, which showed the “international impact” of Leicester’s space research.
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