Step 3: Verify the Claim Behind the Caption
What to do: Test the story, not just the picture.
How to do it:
Check the moon phase and position for that date and location using a free tool like Stellarium or TimeAndDate.
Look at the photo’s metadata (EXIF) for the time and camera settings.
Run a reverse image search to see if the photo appeared earlier elsewhere.
Ask the photographer for the original, uncropped file.
Common mistake to avoid: Relying on “read the first comment” posts. That phrase is a common engagement bait tactic, and the comment often leads to ads or unrelated links.
Tips for Better Results
Tip 1: Compare the object’s position against fixed landmarks like trees across every frame.
Tip 2: Note the date, then check what the moon was doing that night.
Tip 3: Turn off night mode and shoot a short exposure to see the true scene.
Tip 4: Use a tripod or steady surface to avoid motion smear.
Tip 5: Save the original file, since social media compression removes detail.
Tip 6: Be skeptical of captions promising a secret detail.
Tip 7: Share the original photo with its time and place, not a stitched collage.
Tip 8: Ask in astronomy communities if you’re unsure, as they identify these quickly.
FAQ
