NASA Told to Use House Budget as Shutdown Looms
In a last-minute decision, NASA has been instructed by the White House to use the House budget as its funding template in case of a government shutdown. The move comes as Congress struggles to pass a final budget for fiscal year 2026, with a new fiscal year set to begin on October 1.
According to sources, the directive was issued earlier this week, just days before the potential shutdown deadline. NASA officials have confirmed that they are working to implement the House budget, which includes funding for many of the agency's science missions.
"We're doing our best to prepare for any scenario," said a NASA spokesperson. "We understand the uncertainty and are working closely with lawmakers to ensure continuity of our operations."
The decision is seen as a victory for scientists and advocates who had been pushing for increased funding for NASA's research programs. The House budget includes significant increases for many of these programs, including those focused on space exploration and Earth science.
However, not everyone is pleased with the development. Some lawmakers have expressed concerns that the House budget does not go far enough in addressing the needs of NASA's science community.
"While we appreciate the increased funding in the House budget, it still falls short of what our scientists and engineers need to continue making groundbreaking discoveries," said Rep. Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-TX), chair of the House Science Committee. "We will continue to push for a final budget that meets the needs of NASA's science programs."
The situation with the fiscal year 2026 budget has been marked by delays and disagreements between lawmakers, with both the House and Senate proposing their own budget templates. The White House had proposed significant cuts to many agencies, including NASA.
In July, the White House directed science mission leaders to prepare "closeout plans" for about two dozen spacecraft that were targeted for cancellation under the president's budget request. However, these plans have been put on hold pending further developments.
With a shutdown looming, lawmakers are scrambling to pass a continuing resolution or final budget before October 1. The outcome remains uncertain, but NASA officials remain hopeful that they will be able to continue their critical research programs.
"We're doing everything we can to prepare for any scenario," said the NASA spokesperson. "We appreciate the support of our lawmakers and look forward to continuing our important work."
*Reporting by Arstechnica.*
