
Urgent Call to Action: Save NASA's Biological and Physical Sciences Division from Budget Cuts!
2025-06-12
Author: Sarah
Major Budget Cuts Threaten NASA’s Science Division
Attention ASGSR Members and Friends! Brace yourselves for shocking news as the President’s Budget Request (PBR) has just hit the waves, and it outlines catastrophic cuts to NASA’s Science Mission Directorate. Specifically, the Biological and Physical Sciences Division (BPS)—a cornerstone for much of our research—is staring down a staggering 72% budget cut, slashing funds from $87.5 million to a mere $25 million.
The Stark Reality of Funding Reductions
Under the proposed budget, only $13 million is allocated for Physical Sciences research, along with a mere $4 million each for Space Biology and the CERISS initiative. These drastic cuts jeopardize numerous research projects and training opportunities backed by BPS, posing a serious threat to the nation's exploration ambitions.
Imagine the ripple effects: a significant loss in the translational benefits our research provides for life here on Earth, crippling workforce development pipelines, and forcing our community into a prolonged struggle for recovery, reminiscent of the last decade when we faced similar funding crises.
A Call to Action: Advocacy Needed Now!
But don’t despair just yet! The PBR is merely a request to Congress. Now is our moment to advocate as the House and Senate Appropriations Committees prepare to draft the Commerce-Justice-Science (CJS) bill over the upcoming months.
We urge every one of you to reach out to your local and state representatives to underscore the crucial need for a robust BPS budget. Here are some powerful talking points to emphasize:
Essential Reasons to Support BPS Funding
1. BPS research is vital for astronaut health and safety, a crucial component of the nation’s exploration goals.
2. This research plays an indispensable role in enhancing life here on Earth.
3. Supporting BPS ensures America maintains its leadership and competitiveness in space.
4. BPS research is a key driver for a flourishing commercial Low Earth Orbit (LEO) economy.
Take Immediate Action!
Act quickly—this week—by filling out our advocacy tracking form. Use our template letter to contact your Senators and Representatives, and don’t hesitate to request a meeting in their local offices.
Time is of the essence! Several ASGSR Board and Student Board members will be heading to Washington D.C. shortly, directly engaging with Congress on behalf of NASA BPS funding.
Join the Fight to Protect Our Research!
If you have questions or need more information, don’t hesitate to reach out to Liz Blaber at blabee-at-rpi.edu.
Together, we can make a difference! Act now to safeguard the future of NASA's Biological and Physical Sciences Division!