More than 130 space advocates from 34 states and Washington D.C. traveled to Capitol Hill on the 2026 Day of Action, organized by The Planetary Society, to push lawmakers for sustained funding of NASA science programs.
The advocates lobbied members of Congress to protect budget allocations for planetary exploration, Earth science, and astrophysics missions. The effort reflects growing concern within the space community that NASA's science division faces budget pressures that could delay or cancel key projects.
The Planetary Society mobilized supporters across the country to deliver a unified message. Advocates emphasized that space exploration drives technological innovation, creates jobs, and answers fundamental questions about our universe and our place in it.
The timing matters. Congress determines NASA's annual budget, and advocates want decision-makers to understand constituent support for the agency's science work. The campaign targeted both established space-friendly lawmakers and members representing districts where NASA contractors operate.
The Day of Action represents a sustained push by the space community to maintain American leadership in planetary science and space exploration. By bringing advocates directly to Capitol Hill, The Planetary Society amplified voices beyond Washington insiders, reminding elected officials that space exploration commands broad public backing across the country.