Webinar: Getting Ready for the FY 2027 NASA Budget

Why It Matters

The session translates complex budget mechanics into concrete actions for stakeholders seeking to preserve NASA’s science portfolio and research workforce; with Congress receptive but OMB implementation uncertain, organized advocacy now can shape FY2027 appropriations and ensure funds are spent.

Summary

Speakers from The Planetary Society held a webinar outlining the FY2027 NASA appropriations process, noting Congress’s recent bipartisan support, a confirmed administrator and the largest NASA budget in decades but ongoing pressure to ensure appropriated funds are actually apportioned and spent. They explained federal budget basics, highlighted that NASA’s roughly $25 billion (FY2026) slice—about a third for science—funds missions, 10,000 research positions and ~3,000 competitive grants. The briefing walked attendees through how Congress, not the White House, controls final spending and described practical advocacy steps, centered on submitting an Appropriations Request Form to influence members of Congress. Presenters emphasized participation opportunities and provided a live walkthrough and Q&A to help advocates protect NASA science funding.

Original Description

The Fiscal Year 2027 budget process has begun! On February 25th, the House Appropriations Committee released a roadmap on this process in the lower chamber. Though the Senate process is pending, this means the first major decisions about federal spending priorities for science will take place in the coming weeks.

This webinar outlined the annual appropriations process, provided an update on current knowledge about the much-anticipated President's Budget Request for fiscal year 2027, and provided a new way to take action in support of NASA science.

Learn more about The Planetary Society's Space Policy & Advocacy Program: https://www.planetary.org/space-policy-advocacy

Take action at our online action center: https://www.planetary.org/action-center