What Does Trump’s Return Mean For NASA, Artemis and US Spaceflight? Deep Space Update Special
What Does Trump’s Return Mean For NASA, Artemis and US Spaceflight? Deep Space Update Special
Scott Manley’s deep dive into how Trump’s re-election could shape the future of space exploration is compelling. With Elon Musk openly supporting Trump, the dynamics between government space agencies and private companies like SpaceX are brought into focus. Manley suggests that while Musk’s support might influence Trump’s approach to space policy, NASA’s role isn’t under immediate threat, given its essential contributions to the foundational research, facilities, and resources that private space ventures often rely on.
One primary question is whether the Artemis program and NASA’s Space Launch System (SLS) will stay funded. Although Trump originally pushed for a lunar return by 2024, the plan has faced delays. Manley is skeptical that a complete shift from SLS to SpaceX’s Starship program will happen, given the political complexity of discontinuing SLS and the strong Congressional support it enjoys.
Manley also highlights potential candidates for NASA administrator, mentioning Jim Bridenstine’s successful previous term, though his support for Ron DeSantis may affect his prospects. Other notable candidates include Greg Autry, who emphasizes America’s competition with China in space, a priority Trump may share.
The budget outlook is mixed. Trump might increase NASA’s budget to bolster national achievements, yet proposed tax cuts and deficit challenges could limit such expansions. Elon Musk’s influence, though informal due to conflicts of interest, might shape a push toward privatizing government functions. However, given the role NASA plays as a customer for companies like SpaceX, complete privatization seems unlikely.
Overall, Manley paints a future where NASA and private space companies continue to coexist, though with the growing influence of private entities in American space ambitions.
