Our approach
StarStation aims to publish accurate, clearly sourced astronomy and space coverage. We distinguish confirmed facts from preliminary research, theory, interpretation, and speculation.
Primary sources first
Whenever possible, important claims should trace back to original or authoritative material such as research papers, observatories, universities, mission teams, scientific organizations, and official agency information. A press release, social post, or secondary article should not replace the underlying source when the original is available.
AI and automation
AI and automation may assist with research organization, source discovery, coding, data formatting, outlining, transcription cleanup, or early drafting. They are not treated as authoritative sources.
StarStation should not auto-publish an AI-generated story simply because a feed or model produced it. Material intended for publication should be reviewed for factual accuracy, sourcing, dates, names, quotations, scientific context, image rights, and clarity before it goes live.
- Do not invent quotes, researchers, papers, statistics, mission details, launch dates, or discoveries.
- Do not present an AI summary as if it were original reporting from a scientist or institution.
- Do not disguise generated or substantially altered imagery as documentary astronomy photography.
- Clearly label preliminary findings, preprints, simulations, artist concepts, and other material that could otherwise be misunderstood.
- When an article changes materially after publication, update the story and disclose the change when readers would reasonably need to know.
Research status
Peer-reviewed research, preprints, conference results, mission-team announcements, and early observations do not carry the same level of certainty. StarStation should identify that distinction instead of flattening every new result into a definitive “discovery.”
Images and media
Images should carry appropriate creator or agency credit and, when possible, a link to the original source or rights information. Public-domain agency media, licensed photography, artist concepts, processed scientific images, and reader-submitted astrophotography should be identified accurately.
Corrections and updates
Factual errors should be corrected promptly. Significant changes should be disclosed through an editorial note or correction when appropriate. Minor spelling, grammar, formatting, or clarity edits do not necessarily require a public correction note.
Community content
Reader comments, observing reports, and future community submissions represent the views or experiences of their authors. They should not be presented as StarStation editorial conclusions or scientific verification.
Commercial independence
Advertising, sponsorships, affiliate relationships, donations, and memberships should not determine scientific conclusions or editorial coverage. Sponsored content and affiliate relationships should be clearly disclosed.
Institutional independence
StarStation should not imply endorsement by NASA, ESA, NOAA, the IAU, a university, an observatory, a journal, or another organization unless such a relationship actually exists.