Space Science at Risk: Former NASA Leaders Fight for Funding

Seven former heads of NASA's science programs have joined forces to protest a huge budget cut.

Key Points

• 47% Reduction: They want Congress to reject a 47% cut in NASA's 2026 science budget.
• Impact: The cut could halt many space missions and affect thousands of scientists and engineers.
• Global Standing: It could also make the U.S. fall behind other countries in space science.

Why NASA's Science Programs Matter

• Small Budget, Big Benefits: NASA's science programs are a small part of the total budget but have significant benefits.
• Economic Boost: They help the U.S. economy and create new technologies.
• Inspiration: Missions like the Mars rovers and the Hubble Space Telescope have inspired people worldwide.
• National Pride: The leaders argue these programs highlight what makes America great.

Ongoing Protests

• Not the First: Other groups and lawmakers have also spoken out against the budget cuts.
• Disaster Warning: They say the cuts would be catastrophic for NASA science.
• Hope for Change: The former leaders hope their message will make a difference.