Named in honor of Johnny Carson (1925– ), entertainer and host of television’s “The Tonight Show” from 1962 to 1992. Carson’s witty monologue and unique, relaxed style of interviewing guests helped make this show a popular, late-night tradition in millions of American households. Away from the public spotlight, Johnny Carson is a devoted amateur astronomer. This interest in astronomy was shared with his TV audience through numerous light-hearted chats with guest Carl Sagan {see planet  (2709)}. (M 27124) _ _.