A group of seven living former Associate Administrators of NASA’s Science Mission Directorate has signed a joint letter opposing the Trump administration’s proposed 47% cut to NASA’s 2026 science budget, urging Congress to reject the cuts. The signatories warn that the indiscriminate reduction would end dozens of current and future missions, severely damaging the agency’s engineering and scientific workforce. They also highlight the numerous benefits of NASA’s science programs, including their contribution to the US economy and technological leadership.
The letter emphasizes that investments in NASA science have been a powerful driver of the US economy and technological advancement, citing successful missions like the Mars rovers, Hubble Space Telescope, James Webb Space Telescope, and Parker Solar Probe. The authors note that these activities result in novel technologies, algorithms, and advanced materials, which benefit the economy and national security.
This opposition comes as part of a growing chorus of criticism from various groups, including the Planetary Society and bipartisan lawmakers, who have expressed concerns about the proposed cuts. The former NASA science chiefs’ letter underscores the importance of NASA’s science programs in delivering benefits to the American people, providing broad direct economic advantages while inspiring citizens with awe and wonder.
The letter is a strong statement of unity among the signatories, who recognize the critical role that NASA’s science programs play in advancing US interests and values.
Source: https://www.space.com/space-exploration/every-living-former-nasa-science-chief-opposes-trumps-proposed-budget-cuts-in-letter-to-congress