Trump’s Cuts Threaten NASA Plans for Astronauts on Mars

image via New Scientist

June 6, 2025, 12:00 PM

• •Trump's budget plan for NASA is insufficient for near-term human missions to Mars.
• •NASA faces challenges including budget cuts, technical hurdles, and political uncertainty.
• •Scientists are divided on the feasibility and ethics of a Mars mission, with concerns about cost, risks, and potential impact on other research.
• •Experts suggest prioritizing robotic missions and streamlined approaches to achieve Mars exploration goals.

The article discusses the feasibility of sending humans to Mars, focusing on former President Trump's proposal and the challenges faced by NASA. Trump's budget plan is deemed inadequate by experts, and the article highlights the significant financial and technological hurdles involved in a Mars mission. Scientists are divided on the approach, raising concerns about cost, risks, and ethical considerations. Despite the challenges, some scientists are determined to make the best of it and want science to have a seat at the table.

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