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Proposed NASA cuts to space science: “Staggering”
- Proposed NASA cuts would lead to a 47% reduction in the planetary science budget in 2026, as per the Planetary Society.
- The proposed cuts are criticized for endangering numerous space missions, halting scientific progress, and potentially compromising national leadership in space science.
- The NASA budget details released in May 2025 indicate cancellations of several science missions to prioritize exploration investments, with a significant budget reduction of approximately 24% from the previous year.
- The proposed budget includes a $6 billion cut in NASA's budget for fiscal year 2026 with an overall 24% reduction compared to the previous year.
- There would be a considerable decrease in jobs at NASA, dropping from 17,391 to 11,853 direct-funded civil servants under the fiscal year 2026 proposal.
- The Planetary Society's petition against the budget cuts aims to prevent a 47% funding decrease for NASA's Science Mission Directorate, preserving scientific spacecraft and opportunities for future scientists.
- Concerns are raised about the possible termination of productive spacecraft, delays in development projects, and limited prospects for scientists and engineers due to the proposed cuts.
- Citizens worldwide can sign the petition and contact their representatives to voice support for science funding and oppose the proposed budget cuts.
- The fate of NASA's space missions, including New Horizons and multiple others facing potential cancellation, rests on the congressional approval of the budget proposals.
- The proposed cuts are likened to the destruction of monuments in Palmyra by ISIS, underlining the vital returns on investment and the broader impact on innovation, talent, and global influence.
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