California Legislators Criticize NASA's Reduction of Funding for Prominent Mars Mission

Six California lawmakers have criticized NASA's recent cuts to the Mars Sample Return mission, arguing that it will result in job losses and a decade of lost scientific progress. The legislators expressed their opposition in a letter to NASA Administrator Bill Nelson, stating that the move was "short-sighted and misguided." They also highlighted the House appropriations bill, which supports consistent funding for the mission. The Mars Sample Return mission aims to bring samples collected by the Perseverance rover on Mars back to Earth, but its estimated cost has increased to between $8 billion and $11 billion, leading to budget concerns. Missing the 2030 launch window could have significant consequences for future Mars exploration.