get_space_photo_by_date

Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?

No annotations are provided, so the description alone must disclose behavior. It states the tool 'gets' data, implying a read-only operation, but does not mention side effects, authentication, rate limits, or error conditions. Given the existence of an output schema, return structure is not needed in description, but other behavioral details are missing.

Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.

Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?

A single, well-formed sentence with no extraneous words. The description is concise and front-loaded with the key information.

Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.

Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?

For a simple retrieval tool with one parameter and an output schema, the description covers the essential purpose and a critical formatting detail. Missing elements like error handling or availability restrictions are minor gaps given the tool's simplicity.

Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.

Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?

The schema has no description for the date parameter (0% coverage). The description compensates by specifying the required format 'YYYY-MM-DD', adding useful semantic beyond the plain string type. However, it does not provide example values, valid ranges, or constraints (e.g., no future dates).

Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.

Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?

The description clearly states the action ('Get') and the resource ('Astronomy Picture of the Day for a specific date'). It includes the required date format (YYYY-MM-DD), distinguishing it from siblings like get_todays_space_photo and get_random_space_photo.

Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.

Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?

No explicit guidance on when to use this tool versus its siblings (get_random_space_photo, get_todays_space_photo). The date format hint is present, but there is no mention of prerequisites, typical use cases, or situations where this tool is preferred.

Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.