Trump Administration Plans to Terminate NASA Missions Monitoring Greenhouse Gases

What's Happening?

The Trump administration has announced plans to terminate two NASA missions that monitor greenhouse gases and plant health. These missions, known as the Orbiting Carbon Observatories, have been instrumental in providing precise data on carbon dioxide emissions and absorption, as well as crop growth. The administration's budget request for fiscal year 2026 does not allocate funds for these missions, citing alignment with the President's agenda and budget priorities. Despite being beyond their prime mission, these observatories are considered highly sensitive and accurate, surpassing other global systems in operation or planned. David Crisp, a retired NASA scientist who led the development of these missions, has emphasized their importance as a national asset.

Why It's Important?

The decision to cut funding for these NASA missions could have significant implications for climate research and policy-making. The data provided by the Orbiting Carbon Observatories is crucial for understanding carbon emissions and their impact on climate change, informing both scientific research and policy decisions. The termination of these missions may hinder efforts to monitor and address climate change, affecting stakeholders such as scientists, policymakers, and farmers who rely on this data for environmental management and agricultural planning. The move reflects broader policy shifts under the Trump administration, prioritizing budgetary constraints over environmental monitoring.

What's Next?

The proposed termination of these NASA missions may face opposition from environmental groups, scientists, and policymakers who advocate for continued climate monitoring. There could be calls for alternative funding sources or legislative action to preserve these missions. The decision may also influence future discussions on the U.S. government's role in addressing climate change and supporting scientific research. As the budget proposal progresses through Congress, stakeholders may lobby for amendments to restore funding for these critical missions.