NASA’s Orbiting Carbon Observatory
Recent developments in 2025 show NASA’s Orbiting Carbon Observatory (OCO) missions are at risk of termination. The Trump administration’s budget proposal for the 2026 fiscal year excludes funding for these satellites. Despite their critical role in climate monitoring, NASA plans to end the missions citing budget priorities. This has sparked concern among scientists and lawmakers about the future of space-based carbon dioxide observation.
Background
The original OCO mission failed at launch due to a technical fault in 2009. Its replacement, OCO-2, launched in 2014, has since provided precise data on atmospheric carbon dioxide. A second instrument was added to the International Space Station (ISS) in 2019. These missions monitor global carbon fluxes and plant health, vital for understanding climate change dynamics.
Scientific Importance of OCO Data
OCO satellites detect carbon dioxide sources and sinks worldwide. They revealed that the Amazon rainforest now emits more CO2 than it absorbs. Boreal forests in Canada and Russia act as unexpected carbon sinks. The satellites also track photosynthesis, helping to assess drought impacts and predict food shortages. This data supports climate science and global environmental policy.
Budget Cuts and NASA’s Position
The 2026 budget proposal removes funding for both the free-flying satellite and the ISS instrument. NASA states the missions are beyond their prime and align with presidential budget priorities. However, scientists argue the satellites remain highly sensitive and essential. NASA will continue operations until the end of the current fiscal year but plans for shutdown are underway.
Political and Scientific Responses
Congress is divided – the House supports ending the missions, while the Senate seeks to preserve them. Some Democrats warn that terminating missions or withholding funds may be illegal. Scientists are forming international coalitions to keep the ISS instrument active.
Future Funding Challenges
Efforts to secure private or philanthropic funding are underway but criticised by experts as unsustainable. The free-flying OCO satellite may be de-orbited, ending its mission. NASA staff have started shutdown planning. The uncertainty threatens critical climate data continuity and impedes long-term environmental monitoring.
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