While the exact identity of the person who named the stars Vega and Rigel is unknown, Muslim scholars were mapping the skies, as can be seen by the number of stars with Arabic names.
In recent times, the mention of Islam has had the potential to court controversy, but as far as astronomy is concerned, historically a great debt is owed for preserving and expanding the science in the Muslim world during difficult times in Europe.
Some of the bright stars with Arabic names:
Hadar: Meaning “settlement”; Also known as Beta Centauri
Achernar: Meaning “the end of the river”
Vega: Meaning "stooping eagle"
Altair: Meaning "the flying (eagle)"
Aldebaran: Meaning "the follower"
Rigel: Meaning "the foot of the giant"
Betelguese: Meaning "the armpit of the central one"
The beautiful blue-white star Vega has a special place in the hearts of many skywatchers. Come to know it, and you will see. Follow the links at Earthsky.org to learn more.
The beautiful blue-white star Rigel is in the constellation Orion the Hunter. This constellation is one of the easiest-to-spot of all-star patterns, and Rigel is one of the brightest stars in the night sky. Follow the links at earthsky.org to learn more about the star Rigel.