Last updated: August, 2025

At Starlust, editorial integrity is the cornerstone of everything we publish. We believe that curiosity about space deserves journalism that is accurate, transparent, and rooted in respect for science. These Editorial Guidelines outline how we research, write, review, and update our content - and the principles that guide us along the way.

Commitment to Accuracy

We strive to ensure that every article published on Starlust is factually sound and clearly sourced. Our team verifies all claims using primary or highly credible secondary sources, including peer-reviewed scientific journals, official agency reports (such as NASA, ESA, ISRO), academic institutions, and subject-matter experts.

When covering breaking news, we take additional care to validate the information through multiple reliable outlets before publication. Even when time is tight, accuracy always takes precedence over speed.

We also make a conscious effort to clearly distinguish between verified facts, expert opinions, and speculative or theoretical content. Where applicable, we provide direct citations or attribution to our sources to ensure transparency and allow readers to explore further.

Editorial Process

All published content undergoes a multi-step editorial workflow designed to ensure both quality and accuracy. This typically includes:

• Story assignment and brief review by a senior editor
• Initial draft writing, either by in-house editors or vetted freelance contributors
• Fact-checking, which may include independent verification of claims, data accuracy, and cross-referencing original sources
• Final editorial review, focusing on clarity, structure, tone, and compliance with our brand guidelines and legal standards

Any content containing affiliate links or sponsored elements is reviewed separately to ensure it meets our commercial guidelines and maintains editorial independence. Sponsored or branded content is always disclosed to readers.

Use of AI and Automation

We do not use AI-generated content as a replacement for human journalism. Where AI tools are used - for example, to help summarize data, generate content outlines, or surface topics of interest — their output is strictly reviewed and edited by human staff. No article is ever published without going through the same editorial standards applied to original reporting.

Corrections and Updates

Mistakes can happen, and when they do, we take them seriously. If a factual error is found in a published article, we correct it promptly. A correction notice is added to the article noting what was changed, and when.

For minor clarifications or enhancements (e.g., adding context or improving clarity), we may update the content without a formal correction note - but all substantial edits are clearly indicated.

We welcome readers’ help in identifying any mistakes. You can report a correction request by emailing editor@starlust.org, and our team will respond as quickly as possible.

Editorial Independence

Starlust is funded through advertising and affiliate relationships, but our editorial content is produced independently of commercial interests. No advertiser, sponsor, or affiliate partner has any say in what we cover, how we review products, or the conclusions we draw.

All affiliate links are disclosed in line with FTC guidelines, and we never accept payment in exchange for coverage or favorable treatment.

Inclusive Representation and Diversity of Sources

Science is a global endeavor, and so is our audience. We make a conscious effort to include diverse perspectives in our reporting, commissioning work from contributors around the world and quoting a broad range of experts across disciplines, gender, geography, and background.

We believe that a richer mix of voices results in more accurate, well-rounded storytelling - and we’re always working to expand who gets to speak in science media.

How to Contribute or Provide Feedback

We welcome pitches from science writers, astronomers, engineers, educators, and passionate stargazers who share our values. If you’d like to contribute to Starlust, please email contact@starlust.org with “Freelance Pitch” in the subject line, along with a short outline of your idea and relevant writing samples.

If you have feedback, questions about our editorial process, or concerns about any published story, we encourage you to reach out to editor@starlust.org. Every message is read and taken seriously.

These guidelines are regularly reviewed to ensure that our work meets the highest possible standards - not just today, but as science journalism evolves.

Let us know how we can do better. We're always listening.