1. United States
2. Calif.
3. Letter

I am writing to express my deep concern regarding the recent re-nomination of Jared Isaacman as NASA administrator. While Mr. Isaacman's experience in private space ventures is notable, I urge you to carefully consider whether his background aligns with NASA's comprehensive mission, particularly its crucial scientific endeavors. NASA's strength lies in its balanced approach to space exploration, combining human missions with robotic exploration and cutting-edge scientific research. This equilibrium is vital for advancing our understanding of the universe and maintaining U.S. leadership in space. I fear that Mr. Isaacman's close ties to private space companies may lead to an overemphasis on human spaceflight at the expense of other critical programs. It's important to recognize that NASA often demonstrates superior efficiency compared to private industry, especially in scientific missions. The agency's rovers, probes, and telescopes have provided unprecedented insights into our solar system and beyond, often at a fraction of the cost of comparable private sector initiatives. We must protect and expand these programs, not risk their diminishment through excessive outsourcing. As you evaluate Mr. Isaacman's nomination, I implore you to demand a clear commitment to a robust budget for NASA's scientific missions. This should include increased funding for planetary exploration, astrophysics, and Earth science programs. These initiatives not only advance our scientific knowledge but also provide crucial data for addressing global challenges like climate change. Furthermore, I ask that you scrutinize Mr. Isaacman's plans for NASA's workforce. The agency's success relies on its dedicated and highly skilled employees. Any leadership transition must prioritize retaining this talent and addressing current workforce concerns to ensure NASA's continued excellence. The coming years are critical for NASA, with ambitious goals like returning humans to the Moon and preparing for Mars exploration. However, these objectives should not overshadow the agency's broader scientific mission. I urge you to ensure that any NASA administrator, whether Mr. Isaacman or another nominee, demonstrates a clear understanding of and commitment to the agency's diverse responsibilities and the importance of maintaining a balanced space program. Your support for NASA's comprehensive mission is crucial for the future of American space exploration and scientific advancement. Thank you for your attention to this vital matter.