Named in memory of Nikolaj Borisovich Pal’chikov (1913–1937), a student in the astronomy department at Leningrad University. He wanted to specialize in celestial mechanics and was invited by M. Subbotin {see planet  (1692)} to pursue post-graduate studies. Along with other Leningrad astronomers, Nikolaj was killed during one of Stalin’s purges. (M 23351) _ _.