Home / Science / NASA Budget Saved: Congress Rejects Trump Cuts
NASA Budget Saved: Congress Rejects Trump Cuts
5 Jan
Summary
- Congress approved a $24.438 billion budget for NASA in fiscal 2026.
- The budget largely rejects significant cuts proposed by the Trump administration.
- Key programs like Earth science and astrophysics funding remain stable.
House and Senate appropriators have unveiled a final appropriations bill for fiscal year 2026 that largely shields NASA from steep budget cuts proposed by the Trump administration. The package designates $24.438 billion for the agency, a slight decrease from previous years but significantly more than the administration's $18.8 billion request.
The administration's budget had sought drastic reductions, particularly in science and space technology, and proposed canceling dozens of missions. However, the new bill provides substantial funding for NASA's science directorate at $7.25 billion and space technology at $920.5 million. Exploration funding is also supported, with $7.783 billion allocated to advance the Artemis Campaign, aiming for a human lunar return by 2028.
While some administrative accounts are reduced, the legislation preserves NASA's education program (STEM Engagement) with $143 million. Specific allocations within the science account include $2.15 billion for Earth science and $1.6 billion for astrophysics, maintaining levels close to fiscal 2025. This bipartisan agreement ensures NASA's key missions and future exploration endeavors are adequately resourced.
