The Great Moon Hoax of 1835

On August 25, 1835, the New York Sun published the first in a series of articles that would later become infamous as the “Great Moon Hoax.” The article sensationally claimed that renowned astronomer Sir John Herschel had discovered life and civilization on the Moon. The publication captivated the imagination of the public, sparking widespread interest and debate.

The Articles

The series consisted of six articles, purportedly reprinted from the Edinburgh Journal of Science. The articles described fantastic discoveries made by Herschel using a powerful new telescope. According to the reports, Herschel observed a variety of life forms, including bison-like creatures, goat-unicorn hybrids, and even winged, bat-like humanoids. These humanoids were said to have built temples and lived in an organized society.

The Public Reaction

The articles were an astounding success and significantly boosted the circulation of the New York Sun. The intriguing narrative captivated readers, with many accepting the sensational claims as true due to the credibility lent by Herschel’s reputed name. However, critical scrutiny and skepticism from a few corners questioned the authenticity of these claims, eventually leading to the exposure of the articles as a hoax.

The Unmasking of the Hoax

The Edinburgh Journal of Science, to which the discoveries were attributed, had already ceased publication by that time. Additionally, no corroboration came from Sir John Herschel or any scientific community members. Knowledgeable observers noted inconsistencies and impossibilities in the described lunar discoveries. Eventually, it became widely recognized that the articles were a fabrication, designed to attract attention and readership.

The Legacy of the Hoax

The Great Moon Hoax remains a pivotal moment in the history of journalism. It highlighted both the power of the press in shaping public perception and the potential risk of misinformation. This incident stands as an early example of media-driven sensationalism and serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of critical thinking and verification in accepting extraordinary claims.

The identity of the author of the hoax has been heavily speculated upon, with many attributing it to Richard Adams Locke, a reporter for the New York Sun. Regardless, the event remains a fascinating chapter in the interplay between science, media, and society.