July 10, 2025 | 3:00 PM EST
In an unprecedented show of unity, every living former NASA science chief has signed a letter to Congress opposing the Trump administration’s proposed budget cuts to the agency’s science programs. The letter, dated July 9, 2025, warns that the reductions would “cripple America’s leadership in space exploration and scientific discovery.” The signatories include prominent figures who served under both Democratic and Republican administrations, underscoring the bipartisan concern over the potential damage to NASA’s mission.
The proposed budget, unveiled last month, seeks to slash NASA’s science division funding by nearly 20%, targeting climate research, planetary science, and astrophysics programs. Critics argue the cuts would delay or cancel critical missions, including the next-generation space telescope and Mars sample return efforts. The former science chiefs’ letter urges lawmakers to reject the proposal, stating, “These cuts would not only set back scientific progress but also undermine our ability to address global challenges like climate change.”
A Rare Collective Stand
The letter’s signatories span decades of NASA leadership, including:
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Dr. Thomas Zurbuchen (2016–2022), who oversaw the launch of the James Webb Space Telescope.
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Dr. John Grunsfeld (2012–2016), a former astronaut and Hubble repair veteran.
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Dr. Edward Weiler (1998–2011), a key figure in Mars rover missions.
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Dr. France Córdova (2013–2020), who championed diversity in STEM.
In the letter, they write: “NASA’s science programs are the crown jewels of American innovation. Cutting them now would be a historic mistake, sacrificing long-term discovery for short-term savings.”
Targeted Programs at Risk
The budget proposal specifically threatens:
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Earth Science Missions: Funding for climate monitoring satellites would be reduced by 30%, despite escalating climate crises.
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Planetary Exploration: The Mars Sample Return mission, a collaboration with ESA, faces delays due to a $500 million cut.
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Astrophysics: The Habitable Worlds Observatory, a successor to Webb, could be shelved.
Dr. Zurbuchen, in an interview, stated: “This isn’t just about space—it’s about our future. These missions help us understand Earth’s climate, find habitable planets, and protect humanity from asteroids. Defunding them is reckless.”
Political and Scientific Backlash
The letter has galvanized opposition on Capitol Hill. Rep. Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-TX), chair of the House Science Committee, called the cuts “disastrous,” while Sen. Marco Rubio (R-FL) warned, “We cannot cede space leadership to China.”
Scientists nationwide have echoed the concerns. Dr. Bethany Ehlmann, a planetary scientist at Caltech, said: “Mars Sample Return is our best shot at finding extraterrestrial life. Killing it would be a betrayal of science.”
White House Response
The Trump administration defends the cuts as necessary to “refocus NASA on human exploration,” citing the Artemis Moon program. A spokesperson said: “We must prioritize boots on the Moon over telescopes in space.”
Critics, however, note that Artemis itself faces delays and cost overruns. Dr. Grunsfeld retorted: “You can’t explore the cosmos with one hand tied behind your back. Science and exploration go hand in hand.”
What’s Next?
Congress will debate the budget in the coming weeks. The former science chiefs’ letter adds weight to efforts by lawmakers like Sen. Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) to restore funding. “NASA’s budget is a drop in the federal bucket,” she said. “But its impact is cosmic.”
As the debate unfolds, the scientific community remains vigilant. Dr. Weiler summed it up: “This isn’t partisan—it’s about preserving America’s legacy as a beacon of discovery.”
