This policy explains how Poldot reports, writes and edits its articles. It applies to everything we publish.
Accuracy first
We aim to get the science right before we publish. Every factual claim in an article should be supported by a reliable source: a peer-reviewed paper, a dataset, an official mission or agency statement, or a direct statement from a researcher. Where numbers vary between sources — distances, masses, dates — we use the most authoritative current figure and round sensibly.
Sources
- We prioritise primary sources, such as papers, mission documentation and agency data releases, over other publications’ coverage.
- Preprints that have not completed peer review are identified as preprints.
- Press releases are a starting point, not a conclusion. We read the underlying research where it is available.
- We link to sources where practical so readers can check our work.
Uncertainty and context
Science moves through debate. We explain how confident researchers are in a result, note competing interpretations, and avoid presenting a single study as settled fact. We are especially careful with claims about possible signs of life, threats to Earth, and “firsts”.
Headlines and images
Headlines should reflect what the article actually says. We do not use sensationalist headlines or exaggerate findings for clicks. Images are credited; illustrations, artist’s concepts and processed false-colour images are labelled as such.
Independence and conflicts of interest
Poldot does not accept payment in exchange for coverage, and advertisers have no influence over editorial decisions. If a writer has a personal or financial connection to a subject, we disclose it or assign the story to someone else. Any sponsored content or affiliate links will be clearly identified.
Use of automated tools
We may use software tools, including AI-assisted tools, for tasks such as research support, transcription, spelling and drafting. Every article is reviewed by a person before publication, and the publication takes responsibility for its accuracy. We do not publish AI-generated images presented as real astronomical photographs.
Updates and corrections
When we make a significant update to an article, the updated date is shown. When we get something wrong, we correct it openly as described in our Corrections policy.
Feedback
If you believe we have fallen short of these standards, please write to [email protected].