Two key NASA satellite missions, OCO-2 and OCO-3, face potential termination not due to technical issues but because of federal budget decisions. Part of the Orbiting Carbon Observatory program, these satellites were designed to monitor carbon dioxide levels in Earth’s atmosphere and have also unexpectedly provided valuable data on global plant growth through photosynthesis.
These satellites play a crucial role for various sectors, including researchers and the Department of Agriculture, by tracking greenhouse gases and assessing crop health. Despite their significance, maintaining both satellites costs about $15 million annually, while their design and launch have already exceeded $750 million in public spending. A failed launch in 2009 further increased the program’s expenses.
Recent actions by the Trump administration have raised concerns. Internal NASA discussions have mentioned “Phase F” plans, focusing on terminating missions. If decommissioned, one independent satellite in orbit would burn up upon reentry. Scientists argue that the data these missions provide is essential for understanding climate change and should not be prematurely ended.
NASA has already sought private companies and universities to manage the OCO-3 unit aboard the International Space Station. While private involvement in Earth observation is growing, much of it relies on essential public investments.
Funding for these missions is secured until September 2025, but their future remains uncertain. A NASA review in 2023 advised that the missions should continue for at least another three years. However, the proposed FY2026 budget by the Trump administration includes significant cuts, leading to criticisms of overreach by officials. Without a formal explanation from the administration, uncertainty looms over why missions that continue to yield invaluable climate insights might be dismantled.
