A new study from The University of New Mexico examines how misinformation about planetary defense spreads and threatens public trust, according to a May 18 statement.
The research is significant because it addresses how false or misleading information can undermine confidence in scientific assessments and emergency response plans related to asteroid and comet threats. Planetary defense depends on clear communication between scientists, policymakers, and the public.
Mark Boslough, a research professor at UNM, led the study with co-authors from 12 institutions. The paper, published in Meteoritics and Planetary Science, analyzes case studies showing how misinformation about Near-Earth Objects (NEOs), airbursts, impacts, and planetary defense emerges from sources such as weak peer review processes, overstated press releases, limited scientific literacy, social media amplification, artificial intelligence tools, and nontraditional science communicators. “Science is a rigorous endeavor that requires logic, evidence, reproducibility, transparency, and honesty. These high standards must be upheld and must guide everything we do as scientists,” said Boslough.
The researchers warn that because topics like asteroids often attract widespread attention online or in media coverage—sometimes sensationalized—they are especially vulnerable to misunderstanding. Misinformation can develop quickly through rumors or persist for generations as myths. “Planetary defense is about protecting lives, livelihoods, and property. Misinformation undermines public trust and endangers people by reducing confidence in scientific assessments and emergency response plans,” said Boslough.
Boslough explained some persistent misconceptions: “Interstellar comets are not alien spaceships. Sodom and Gomorrah were not destroyed by a cosmic airburst. Ancient advanced civilizations were not wiped out by a comet swarm 12,900 years ago. These might be fun science fiction plots but they have no scientific support.”
The paper recommends proactive communication strategies for scientists—including engaging with the media directly—to address misinformation before it spreads further. “Scientists must remain engaged in the public square… We have a professional obligation to call out misinformation for what it is,” concluded Boslough.
The University of New Mexico has more than 200,000 alumni worldwide; its campus features Pueblo Revival architecture within a metropolitan area; its athletics program competes nationally; it serves as a cultural resource through libraries and museums; it has been ranked among top national schools; enrollment exceeded 24,000 students across campuses in spring 2023—all according to the official website.
As interest grows around space-related risks—and with rapid changes in digital information sharing—the authors say ongoing efforts will be needed to maintain accurate understanding among both policymakers and the general public.
