NASA Cuts Science X Accounts Amid Major Funding Slashes

NASA is undertaking a significant consolidation of its social media presence by axing at least 23 X accounts operated by its Science Mission Directorate (SMD). This strategic reduction aims to create a more cohesive and impactful outreach message amid a sprawling network of over 400 accounts, 300 of which belong to SMD alone.

The move comes in the context of President Donald Trump’s proposed 2026 fiscal budget, which includes a staggering 25% cut to NASA’s overall funding and a 47% reduction in its science program. These cuts threaten to terminate at least 41 active and planned space missions, including critical projects like the Mars Sample Return mission and the eventual retirement of the Orion capsule and Space Launch System (SLS) rocket.

NASA insists that the public will not lose access to updates on these programs, as the accounts will be archived, merged into broader thematic channels, or rebranded to align with a new strategic framework. However, critics argue this diminishes the unique voices and direct communication channels that individual accounts provided, potentially reducing public engagement and transparency.

Among the accounts being shuttered are high-profile ones like @MarsCuriosity, @NASAPersevere, @NASAVoyager, and @NASA_SLS, many of which have millions of followers. These platforms have served as vital outreach tools, sharing mission updates, scientific discoveries, and engaging the public with NASA’s cutting-edge research.

The broader implications of these changes extend beyond NASA. Other federal science agencies, such as NOAA, are also facing staff layoffs and website shutdowns that threaten public access to critical scientific information, particularly on climate change. This trend raises concerns about the future availability of transparent and accessible science communication in the United States.

Why Consolidate NASA’s Social Media Accounts?

NASA’s rationale for consolidating its social media accounts is to reduce redundancy and create a unified voice that can better engage audiences. With hundreds of accounts, messaging can become fragmented and overwhelming for followers. Streamlining aims to enhance clarity and impact, making it easier for the public to stay informed about NASA’s priorities and achievements.

However, this approach sacrifices the individuality and specialized focus that many accounts provided. Experts like Harvard astronomer Jonathan McDowell argue that social media’s strength lies in its ability to showcase diverse voices and unique perspectives, which a uniform corporate account risks losing.

The Impact of Budget Cuts on NASA’s Scientific Missions

The proposed budget cuts represent one of the most severe reductions in NASA’s history. The science program faces a nearly 50% funding cut, threatening the viability of numerous missions that have captured public imagination and advanced human knowledge. For example, the Mars Sample Return mission, which aims to bring Martian soil samples back to Earth, is at risk of cancellation.

The International Space Station is also feeling the pinch, with research conferences canceled due to regulatory and budgetary constraints. Workforce reductions could shrink NASA’s staff to levels not seen since before the first American spaceflight, severely impacting the agency’s capacity to operate and innovate.

The Future of Public Science Communication

The consolidation of NASA’s social media accounts and the broader funding cuts reflect a challenging environment for public science communication. As agencies streamline and reduce their digital footprints, the risk is that the public will have less access to timely, detailed, and diverse scientific information.

In an era where misinformation can spread rapidly, maintaining transparent and engaging scientific outreach is more critical than ever. The loss of specialized social media voices may hinder this goal, underscoring the importance of innovative solutions to keep the public informed despite budgetary and political pressures.