Do you have a story idea that fits Mercury's mission? The Editor is looking for freelance writers and stories relating to the intersections of astronomy and art, culture, history, and education. The magazine pays for feature articles (between 900 and 1500 words) and columns (between 500 and 900 words). These pieces do not have to focus solely on US-based perspectives. In fact, we’d love to include stories about astronomy intersections happening elsewhere. Mercury's parent organization, the Astronomical Society of the Pacific, is committed to actively promoting diversity, so please keep in mind diverse sources while writing.
Pieces in Mercury are written for the general public with an interest in astronomical themes. These stories should be interesting and lively, and they should not read like an academic article. In addition, it is important to remain factual and truthful. It is also vital to use your own words and not plagiarize.
If you are interested in writing for Mercury, please send your story idea in the form of a query letter addressed to the Editor via email. Queries should be a paragraph or two, should convey your writing style, and should give the Editor a sense of your story’s angle and the sources you plan to speak to for the story.
Thank you, and we look forward to your ideas.
Mercury is distributed by the Astronomical Society of the Pacific, a nonprofit organization dedicated to astronomy literacy, education, and outreach.
Mercury is an advertisement-free publication. If you are interested in supporting Mercury, please email us.
