I've made the front page several times by sharing sciency articles that I found interesting. Sometimes articles I thought would flop ended up doing well. Other times articles I thought would do well ended up with 2 upvotes. Theres likely a myriad of factors to consider, like the time you submit (if alot of readers are on at that time), etc. I've never resorted to using friends or subverting the upvote system, which doesn't really jive with the whole "authentic" bit you mention... So yes you can definitely make front page, don't take it so personally. I personally think the HN audience is averse to bullshit and clickbait, so trying to "game the system" will actually backfire. Speak honest truths that are relevant because they should be shared, not for the pursuit of upvotes.