### Concerns Raised Over Proposed 2026 NASA Budget Cut

The Aerospace Industries Association has issued a strongly worded letter to Congress expressing deep concerns about the proposed $18.8 billion budget for NASA in FY 2026. This figure represents a significant 24.3 percent reduction from the FY 2025 levels, which many believe could drastically impact the United States' esteemed position in various crucial areas of space and science.

One of the most alarming points raised in the letter is the 50 percent reduction in NASA's science funding. Such severe cuts would notably impair the country's capacity to lead in pioneering scientific research, including the search for new life forms in the depths of space. The letter highlights the critical role that NASA, alongside other science agencies, plays in maintaining America's status as home to the world's foremost space scientists, engineers, and technical experts.

Furthermore, the letter addresses the broader repercussions of these budget cuts, especially in conjunction with ongoing efforts to decrease the federal workforce. These actions could jeopardize thousands of highly skilled jobs, potentially causing America's top talent to look for better opportunities abroad. The letter underscores the risk of such a talent drain and its potential long-term impact on the nation's scientific and technological leadership.

In conclusion, the Aerospace Industries Association emphasizes that reducing NASA's budget to this extent would not only tarnish the nation's space exploration and research capabilities but also pose a significant threat to the workforce driving these initiatives. The letter calls on Congress to reconsider the proposed budget to safeguard America's position at the forefront of space science and technology.