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Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science

What does the U.S. election mean for NASA?

Nov 20, 2024
Casey Dreyer, Chief of Space Policy at The Planetary Society, discusses the implications of the recent U.S. elections on NASA’s funding and priorities. Jack Kiraly, Director of Government Relations, shares insights on budget cuts leading to layoffs at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory. They highlight the need for strong advocacy and grassroots engagement to support space science funding amidst political changes. The conversation also delves into the interplay between political dynamics and NASA's future, stressing the significance of bipartisan cooperation for ongoing space exploration.
59:41

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Quick takeaways

  • The U.S. presidential elections significantly influence NASA's funding priorities, particularly impacting human spaceflight and science projects like Artemis.
  • Recent layoffs at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, resulting from budget cuts, highlight the challenges of funding stability and workforce planning.

Deep dives

Impact of Presidential Elections on NASA Funding

U.S. presidential elections significantly affect NASA's priorities and funding. With the recent election of Donald Trump, expectations arise regarding the direction of human spaceflight and the Science Mission Directorate. The incoming administration is likely to prioritize projects like Artemis and other human exploration missions, influencing budget allocations and the overall strategic focus of NASA. Consequently, the ongoing funding uncertainties could hinder long-term project plans, as agencies often require stable financial support for multi-year investments.

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