Science Community Publishes FY2027 Budget Analyses: 47% Science Cut Faces Bipartisan Congressional Opposition

Following NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman's April 22, 2026 testimony before the House Science, Space, and Technology Committee, the Planetary Society, American Astronomical Society (AAS), and Space Policy Online published detailed analyses of the White House's proposed FY2027 NASA budget request of $18.8 billion — a 23% reduction from FY2026 enacted levels. The Planetary Society's breakdown found the Science Mission Directorate faces approximately $3 billion in reductions (47%), aeronautics faces a 34% cut, while Artemis exploration funding increases approximately 10%. At the April 22 hearing, bipartisan opposition was strong: Committee Chairman Brian Babin (R-TX) stated 'shortchanging NASA is simply not smart,' and Ranking Member Zoe Lofgren (D-CA) called the proposal 'not wise.' Isaacman defended the request, arguing Artemis II's success demonstrates the value of the exploration investment: 'I think it is NASA focusing on and achieving our near impossible mission that sends that powerful message of inspiration across the world.' Analysts note the proposed cuts would effectively cancel the Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope, eliminate or delay multiple astrophysics missions, and drastically reduce Earth science satellite operations. Isaacman committed to releasing a detailed FY2027 budget plan within 10 days of the hearing and reiterated: 'We will always follow the law at NASA.' Congress has historically restored the most severe proposed NASA cuts in appropriations; the FY2026 budget cuts were similarly opposed and softened.