Editorial Guidelines

At Starlust, editorial integrity is the foundation of everything we publish. Curiosity about the universe deserves journalism that is accurate, transparent, and rooted in respect for science. These Editorial Guidelines explain how we research, report, review, and update our content - and the principles that guide our work.

These guidelines apply to all Starlust content, including articles, skywatching guides, reviews, explainers, videos, visual essays, newsletters, social media posts, and special projects. They apply to staff editors, contributors, freelancers, and partners.

1. Our Editorial Mission

Starlust exists to turn curiosity into confidence. We aim to make space, astronomy, and exploration accessible without oversimplifying or sensationalizing science.

Our journalism seeks to:

• Inform accurately
• Explain clearly
• Inspire responsibly
• Respect scientific process and uncertainty

2. Commitment to Accuracy

Accuracy is non-negotiable.

Every article published on Starlust must be factually sound and clearly sourced. We verify all claims using primary or highly credible secondary sources, including:

• Peer-reviewed scientific journals
• Official space-agency communications (NASA, ESA, ISRO, JAXA, etc.)
• Public mission data and archival records
• Academic institutions and research organizations
• On-the-record expert commentary

When covering breaking or developing news, we prioritize verification over speed. If information is incomplete or evolving, we clearly label it as such and update stories as facts are confirmed.

We distinguish clearly between:

• Verified facts
• Expert analysis or interpretation
• Speculative, theoretical, or emerging research

Speculation is never presented as an established fact.

3. Sourcing, Attribution & Anonymity

We prioritize transparency in sourcing.

• Named, on-the-record sources are preferred whenever possible.
• Primary documentation is favored over secondary reporting.
• When secondary sources are used, they are clearly attributed.

Anonymous Sources

Anonymous sources are used sparingly and only when:

• The information is in the public interest
• The source has direct, verifiable access to the information
• Disclosure would pose a credible risk to the source

Use of anonymity requires senior editorial approval and corroboration from additional evidence or sources. We do not base serious scientific or factual claims on a single anonymous source.

4. Science, Uncertainty & Theoretical Research

Science is iterative. We reflect that reality in our reporting.

When covering:

• Pre-print studies
• Early-stage research
• Hypotheses or theoretical models

We clearly explain:

• What is known
• What is still being studied
• What has not yet been proven

We avoid overstating implications or predicting outcomes beyond what the data supports.

5. Editorial Process

All content follows a structured editorial workflow designed to ensure accuracy, clarity, and accountability:

• Assignment & Scope Review - Editors define the angle, scope, and sensitivity of the story.
• Reporting & Drafting - Writers gather facts, verify data, consult sources, and draft content in clear, accessible language.
• Fact-Checking - Editors verify claims, data points, dates, technical terminology, and source accuracy.
• Editorial Review - Senior editors review for tone, clarity, scientific accuracy, balance, and legal or ethical concerns.
• Final Approval - Content is approved only after meeting Starlust’s editorial standards.

Any content containing affiliate links or sponsored elements undergoes an additional review to ensure transparency and editorial independence. Sponsored or branded content is always clearly labeled.

6. Corrections, Clarifications & Updates

Mistakes can happen, and we take them seriously.

• Factual errors are corrected promptly and transparently.
• Substantive corrections include a visible, time-stamped editor’s note explaining what changed and why.
• Minor clarifications (such as wording improvements or added context) may be made without a formal correction note, but substantial updates are clearly indicated.

Readers are encouraged to report errors by emailing: editor@starlust.org

Every request is reviewed carefully.

7. Visuals, Images & Astrophotography

Visual accuracy is as important as textual accuracy.

• Images must be properly licensed or sourced.
• NASA, ESA, and other agency imagery is credited according to usage guidelines.
• Composite, illustrative, or simulated images are clearly labeled.
• Image manipulation must never misrepresent scientific reality.

User-submitted photos are reviewed for authenticity, attribution, and context before publication.

8. Sensitive Coverage

We take special care when covering sensitive subjects, including:

• Spaceflight accidents or fatalities
• Astronaut health or medical matters
• Mental health topics
• Content involving children or minors
• Disaster-related or emotionally charged events

We avoid unnecessary detail, speculation, or sensational framing and follow recognized best practices for responsible science and health reporting.

9. Editorial Independence & Ethics

Starlust is funded through advertising and affiliate relationships, but our journalism is produced independently of commercial interests.

• Advertisers, sponsors, and affiliates have no influence over coverage or conclusions.
• All affiliate links are disclosed in line with FTC guidelines.
• We do not accept payment, gifts, or perks in exchange for coverage or favorable treatment.

Any conflicts of interest — financial, professional, or personal — must be disclosed to editors. Editors may reassign coverage to protect independence.

10. Inclusive Representation & Diversity of Sources

Science is global, and our coverage reflects that.

We actively seek diverse voices across:

• Geography
• Gender
• Discipline and expertise
• Career stage (from amateur astronomers to veteran scientists)

Inclusive sourcing strengthens accuracy, perspective, and trust.

11. Social Media & Professional Conduct

Editors and contributors are representatives of Starlust.

• We do not tolerate harassment, hate speech, or knowingly spreading misinformation.
• Journalists should avoid posting content that compromises their ability to report fairly on science topics they cover.
• Social media activity may be subject to editorial guidance to protect credibility.

12. Freelance Contributions & Community Engagement

We welcome pitches from:

• Science writers
• Astronomers
• Engineers
• Educators
• Astrophotographers and experienced stargazers

Pitch us at editor@starlust.org with “Freelance Pitch” in the subject line, including a brief outline and relevant samples.

We also welcome reader feedback, questions, and concerns. Every message is read and taken seriously.

13. Accountability & Review

These Editorial Guidelines are reviewed regularly to ensure our standards remain strong as science, technology, and journalism evolve.

If you believe we’ve fallen short, tell us. Accountability makes our work better.

Contact: editor@starlust.org