NASA Research Funding Value Declined Since 2011

Adjusted for inflation, NASA research and analysis program funding saw a 30% decrease over the last 15 years.

Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Space

Isometric editorial illustration of a stone planet model resting on an industrial plinth, representing the decline in research funding. — NASA's planetary science research funding has declined by 30% in real-term purchasing power since 2011, according to new research data. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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NASA research and analysis spending remained flat for 15 years, leading to a 30% reduction in real-term funding value since fiscal year 2011. A planetary scientist revealed these findings after analyzing program data obtained through the Freedom of Information Act.

Why it matters

The decline in real-term investment persists despite repeated recommendations from scientific decadal surveys to increase support for planetary science. Furthermore, funding has fallen significantly short of the goals established in the 2022 CHIPS and Science Act.

Planetary research and analysis spending reached $119 million in 2013, while the 2025 budget sits at $144 million. As of the midpoint of fiscal year 2025, NASA has spent $68 million, or 47% of that allocated budget.

The players

NASA

The United States government agency responsible for the nation's civilian space program and aeronautics research.

The details

A researcher compiled separate contributions across planetary science division programs to track fiscal trends over a 15-year period. The analysis highlights that while nominal figures appeared stable, the purchasing power for research has eroded significantly due to inflation.

2011: Decadal surveys began recommending funding increases for planetary science research and analysis.
FY 2011: This year serves as the baseline for the 30% decrease in overall funding value.
2013: Planetary research and analysis spending totaled $119 million.
2022: The CHIPS and Science Act set specific goals for research and analysis funding percentages.
FY 2025: NASA budgeted $144 million for planetary research and analysis programs.

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The Big Picture

This analysis contrasts current spending with the goals established by the 2022 CHIPS and Science Act. The findings indicate that current agency expenditures are failing to meet the specific budgetary benchmarks set by this legislation.

A decrease in research funding can potentially slow the pace of new space discoveries and delay the development of cutting-edge scientific instrumentation. These constraints may ultimately limit the volume of new data and technological advancements available to the public.

The takeaway

Scientific research programs require consistent funding adjustments to keep pace with inflation and maintain operational capacity. Prioritizing these investments is essential to meeting established national goals and fostering consistent advancements in planetary science.