NASA Budget Cuts: SLS, Orion Phased Out, ISS Decommissioning Planned | JQJO

The White House's proposed 2026 NASA budget cuts funding by nearly 25%, totaling $18.8 billion. This shift prioritizes lunar and Mars exploration, phasing out the SLS rocket and Orion spacecraft after three flights, replacing them with commercial alternatives. The budget also proposes significant reductions to the International Space Station's operations, aiming for decommissioning by 2030, and cuts to science programs and space technology. The cancellation of the lunar Gateway and Mars Sample Return missions is also included, along with cuts to STEM education programs. NASA administrator nominee Jared Isaacman expressed concerns about some of the proposed cuts.