Setting the Scene: Public Fascination with Astronomy

During the early 19th century, the public was captivated by astronomy. The discovery of new celestial bodies and advancements in telescope technology fueled a thirst for knowledge about the universe's mysteries. Newspapers seized this opportunity to engage readers with exciting astronomical news.

At that time, The New York Sun was among the leading newspapers in the city. Its editor, Richard Adams Locke, was a gifted writer known for his flair for attracting readers' interest. However, this talent sometimes led him down the path of sensationalism.

The Series Unfolds: Herschel's Amazing Findings

On August 25, 1835, The New York Sun released the first article in a captivating series that claimed Sir John Herschel had uncovered something extraordinary about the moon. The article detailed a vibrant, tropical environment filled with bizarre creatures.

The descriptions were rich and imaginative, suggesting that the moon's inhabitants had wings, conversed in English, and wore garments fashioned from silk. Furthermore, the articles claimed that Herschel had found temples, lush forests, and even unicorns on the lunar surface.

The Public's Response: A Global Sensation

The reaction from the public was swift and intense. People were enthralled by the concept of extraterrestrial life, leading to a surge in The New York Sun’s circulation as the story spread worldwide.

While the public was swept up in the excitement, scientists voiced skepticism. Astronomers quickly highlighted the inconsistencies in Herschel's alleged findings, labeling the articles as a hoax.

The Revelation: An Ingenious Journalistic Maneuver

Despite the scientific community's doubts, the public continued to believe in the possibility of life on the moon. It wasn't until weeks later that The New York Sun disclosed that the entire affair had been a fabrication.

This revelation was not merely an admission of deceit; it was a masterclass in journalism. Instead of simply confessing to the hoax, The New York Sun published additional articles explaining the elaborate scheme behind the deception. Locke and his colleagues crafted the stories to increase readership, leveraging Herschel's esteemed reputation for credibility and even forging a letter attributed to him.

The Aftermath: The Enduring Impact of the Great Moon Hoax

The Great Moon Hoax stands as a significant moment in journalism, showcasing the power of storytelling and the allure of sensationalism. It not only captivated audiences but also left a lasting mark on the journalistic landscape.

This incident served as a turning point, demonstrating the media's potential for manipulation while also emphasizing the necessity of journalistic integrity. It highlighted the perils of exaggeration and fabrication in reporting.

References & Further Reading:

Locke, Richard Adams. “Great Astronomical Discoveries Lately Made by Sir John Herschel, L.L.D., F.R.S., &c. at the Cape of Good Hope.” The New York Sun, August 25, 1835.

Locke, Richard Adams. “The Moon.” The New York Sun, August 26, 1835.

Locke, Richard Adams. “The Moon — (Continued).” The New York Sun, August 27, 1835.

Locke, Richard Adams. “The Moon — (Continued).” The New York Sun, August 28, 1835.

Locke, Richard Adams. “The Moon — Concluded.” The New York Sun, August 29, 1835.

Boller, Paul F. Jr. Memoirs of an Obscure Professor and Other Essays. Athens: University of Georgia Press, 1985.

Hamblin, Jacob Darwin. “The Great Moon Hoax: Science and the Recreation of the Credulous Public.” Journal of American Culture 17, no. 1 (1994): 1–12.

Herschel, John. Results of Astronomical Observations Made During the Years 1834, 5, 6, 7, 8, at the Cape of Good Hope. London: Smith, Elder and Co., 1847.

Mayall, R. Newton. “The Great Moon Hoax.” The Observatory 50, no. 642 (1927): 371–373.

Sutton, Walter. “The Sun’s Moon Hoax and the Crime of Dupe-Baiting.” American Journalism 11, no. 3 (1994): 281–293.