NASA Budget Proposal Cuts Spark Outcry from Lawmakers, Industry

The White House’s proposal to significantly cut NASA’s 2026 budget and cancel major programs—including the lunar Gateway, Space Launch System, and Orion capsule—has drawn strong criticism from U.S. lawmakers, the space industry, and international partners. Critics warn these unprecedented cuts would end critical missions, threaten thousands of jobs—particularly on Florida’s Space Coast—and undermine America’s leadership in space science and technology. The plan would also reduce funding for the International Space Station and shift NASA’s focus toward Mars exploration, with greater reliance on commercial providers. The European Space Agency (ESA), a key collaborator in NASA’s lunar initiatives, is assessing the impact of these cuts on joint projects and is preparing alternative scenarios to address the budget uncertainties. ESA emphasizes the necessity of transatlantic cooperation and will convene in June to discuss potential responses with its member states. Despite the proposed reductions, both NASA and ESA express intent to maintain their partnership while navigating the evolving fiscal landscape.