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Story summary
- NASA's planetary science program faces a $200 million shortfall for fiscal year 2026, forcing difficult decisions on mission continuations.
- Director Louise Prockter of NASA's planetary science division announced the 2026 budget is $2.54 billion, down from $2.72 billion, with Dragonfly and NEO Surveyor.
- DAVINCI and VERITAS face delays.
- The Mars Atmosphere and Volatile Evolution Mission (MAVEN) orbiter has lost contact.
- Mars Sample Return plans remain uncertain after Congress declined funding.
