Error In The Image Of 14-Bis Generated By AI Led To Criticism Of AEB, Which Recognized The Failure And Issued A Public Apology
The Brazilian Space Agency (AEB) issued an official apology on Monday, the 28th, following the negative backlash over a commemorative image for the 152nd anniversary of Santos Dumont. The illustration, released on July 20, was generated by artificial intelligence (AI) and featured historical inaccuracies in the representation of the 14-Bis.
The artwork aimed to honor the Brazilian inventor, considered one of the pioneers of aviation. However, the outcome drew criticism on social media. The issue lay in several incorrect details.
Dumont was depicted positioned at the front of the aircraft, when in fact he piloted from the rear. The propeller was placed at the front of the plane, the landing gear appeared misplaced, and one of the wings was incomplete.
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One of the most shared criticisms came from an outraged internet user. “Did no one at AEB review the generated image? Did no one review the post? Does no one know the 14-Bis?,” they questioned.
Comments like this spread across social media, raising doubts about the review process of the publication.
In response, AEB released an official statement. “In the commemorative post for Santos Dumont’s 152nd anniversary, published on our social media on July 20, we used an image generated by artificial intelligence. The intention was to pay a visual tribute to the inventor, but the outcome presented historical inconsistencies in the representation of the 14-Bis, notably in its structure and proportions,” the text stated.
The agency acknowledged that there were failures in the validation process of the artwork and apologized for the incident. “We recognize the mistake and apologize for the inconvenience,” AEB affirmed.
The episode rekindled the debate on the use of artificial intelligence in historical content. According to G1, experts warn of the risks of disseminating incorrect information when there is no review by qualified professionals. This is especially true for public institutions.
Despite the controversy, AEB thanked the constructive criticism made by internet users. The agency reiterated its commitment to scientific dissemination and stated that it would adopt new review criteria in its publications, especially when involving historical figures like Santos Dumont.
With information from Aventuras na História.

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