A robust science program is not a luxury—it is the bedrock of our ability to explore and ultimately settle other worlds, including the planet Mars.
Every step toward a sustained human presence on the Red Planet relies on the knowledge gained through Earth and planetary science, helio-physics, astrophysics, and robotic exploration. These missions tell us where and how humans can survive on Mars, how to protect them from solar radiation, how to find water, and how to understand Mars’ past and potential for life.
To cut NASA science by nearly half is to blindfold ourselves at the very moment when a multi-planetary future is within reach. We cannot build a new world by turning our backs on the one source of insight that makes it possible: science.
The Mars Society stands in firm opposition to this short-sighted proposal, and we urge Congress to restore and strengthen funding for NASA science—for the sake of exploration, for the sake of knowledge, and for the future of humanity on Mars and beyond.
To find out how you can take action and get involved, email us at: political-advocacy@marssociety.org. Thank you for supporting the future of space exploration!
James Burk, Executive Director, The Mars Society