Suggestions for Propelling Forward in Space: Guidelines to Progress Space Exploration Under the Second Term of the Trump Administration
NASA is facing financial challenges that are limiting its ability to undertake next-generation missions such as the Habitable Worlds Observatory and a planned Uranus orbiter. This is according to a report titled "Making the Next Giant Leap: Recommendations for Advancing Space Exploration During the Second Trump Administration", which was recently released by The Planetary Society.
The report focuses on the challenges and opportunities facing NASA in the coming years. It argues that a diversified portfolio of flagship, mid-scale, and small-scale missions will strengthen NASA's overall science capabilities. The report does not call for restoring NASA's science budget to a specific amount, nor does it advocate against duplicating services that the private sector already provides effectively.
The Artemis program, one of NASA's most ambitious initiatives, aims to establish a sustained human presence on the Moon for the first time since Apollo. However, the report does not discuss the current state of the Artemis program.
The report emphasizes the importance of performance and accountability across NASA's workforce, contractors, and commercial partners. Contractors that fail to meet performance standards should face financial consequences rather than be awarded additional contracts. Companies that demonstrate excellence should be rewarded with incentives and expanded partnerships.
Ensuring fair competition and efficiency in NASA's procurement processes is vital for sustaining long-term success. By following The Planetary Society's recommendations, NASA can ensure that its future missions inspire generations to come and drive the scientific and technological advancements necessary to explore the cosmos.
The report also stresses that science-based objectives not only enhance public support for NASA but also ensure long-term sustainability for its programs. Ambitious space missions cultivate high-tech industries, sustain high-paying jobs, and encourage educational advancements in science and engineering. By investing in space exploration, the U.S. strengthens its global leadership and fosters a forward-thinking culture of innovation.
The report is available at planetary.org. The national government implementing the recommendations of the 2023 report is the United States government under President Trump. It has initiated measures such as Executive Order 14335 in August 2025 to enable competition in the commercial space industry and aim to boost American commercial space launch capacity by 2030. Additionally, the administration has proposed significant budget cuts to NASA’s scientific and climate research missions, refocusing NASA largely on human space exploration.
Space exploration offers significant cultural and societal benefits, including technological innovation, strengthening international relationships, and inspiring future generations. The next giant leap in space exploration will not be achieved through incremental steps alone; it will require bold decision-making, sustained public and political support, and a continued dedication to pushing the boundaries of human knowledge. The report outlines the need for a clear long-term strategy, sustained investment in scientific missions, and stronger accountability in government and commercial partnerships.
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