A few days ago, an intriguing claim made rounds on the internet, stirring up controversy, the claim stated that NASA had been caught using the same backdrop in different photos of the Apollo 17 mission. In this fact-checking article, we’ll delve into this assertion, separating the facts from the fiction. It’s essential to scrutinize such claims to ensure accuracy and to debunk misleading information. This analysis aims to shed light on the truth behind these allegations, and the keywords in focus are “NASA,” “Moon Photos,” and “Apollo 17 Mission.”
The images in question have been widely circulated on social media platforms, especially by accounts originating from China such as @Qing2022022 and @zhang_heqing. These posts aim to cast doubt on the credibility of NASA, suggesting that the agency manipulated photographs. It’s not the first time such claims have emerged, as similar tactics were employed by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) when questioning the authenticity of India’s Chandrayaan-3 mission.
致命错误：NASA 被发现在不同照片中使用相同的背景…. pic.twitter.com/ZoI9jyqsB6
— Qing (@Qing2022022) September 21, 2023
The Misleading Claim:
The fact-check analysis categorically labels the claim as “Misleading.” The basis of this claim is a video displaying two separate photographs of the moon’s surface. The assertion made is that NASA used the same background for different photos taken during the Apollo 17 mission. However, a close examination reveals that both images are entirely different. To begin with, every image regarding the Apollo 17 mission as well as other missions is publically available on the website of NASA. (Click here to check the archive list of NASA’s Apollo 17 Mission.)
Photo 1:
The first photograph depicts an ALSEP pan, capturing the geophone and the 2 flags placed beyond and slightly to the left of the foreground rock. This image is from a distinct moment during the Apollo 17 mission, showcasing a unique perspective of the lunar surface. (Direct Link)
Photo 2:
The second image presents an entirely different scene. It captures astronaut Gene Cernan moving between fellow astronaut Jack Schmitt and the Lunar Module (LM) during the initial test drive on the lunar surface. The details and surroundings in this picture do not match those of the first photograph, demonstrating the erroneous nature of the claim. (Direct Link)
Intent Behind the Claim:
It is vital to recognize that the motive behind such claims extends beyond mere curiosity or interest in space missions. Instead, the intent is likely driven by propaganda. This particular instance suggests that accounts affiliated with China are circulating these visuals with false claims to target NASA. They aim to garner attention and provoke a response on social media platforms.
This strategy aligns with a known pattern observed by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). They have previously used similar tactics, including questioning the authenticity of India’s Chandrayaan-3 mission. By casting doubts on the achievements of other space agencies, the CCP may seek to establish itself as a dominant player in the global space race.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the claim that NASA used the same backdrop in different photos of the Apollo 17 mission is misleading. A careful analysis of the two images reveals that they capture entirely distinct moments on the lunar surface. The intent behind this claim appears to be driven by propaganda, with the aim of targeting NASA and gaining attention on social media. It is crucial to approach such claims with scepticism and verify the facts to ensure that misinformation is not perpetuated. Following a precise analysis and fact-checking, our team has reviewed the claim. You can refer to the findings of this inquiry in the Twitter thread below.
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— D-Intent Data (@dintentdata) September 28, 2023
ANALYSIS: Misleading
FACT: A video of two different photographs of the moon has been shared claiming that NASA was caught using the same background in different photos of the Apollo 17 mission. The fact is that both pictures are completely different. (1/3) pic.twitter.com/Kt6Drat8hU
Claim: NASA used the same background in different photos of the Apollo 17 mission.
Fact: This claim is misleading, as a thorough analysis shows that the two photos depict entirely different scenes on the lunar surface.
