House hearing on asteroid threats also takes up budget threats

A House hearing on NASA’s efforts to defend against asteroid impacts shifted focus to concerns over proposed budget cuts to the agency. While bipartisan support remained strong for the planetary defense program—including the Near Earth Object (NEO) Surveyor mission—Democrats warned that broader cuts in the White House’s 2026 proposal could harm NASA’s science initiatives and partnerships. Officials, including NASA’s Nicky Fox, said they have little information beyond a preliminary budget showing a 24% reduction, leaving missions like NEO Surveyor uncertain. NASA also delayed its annual research grant call due to funding uncertainty.