Hubble and Webb Face Operational Cuts Amidst Budgetary Constraints

NASA's Hubble and James Webb Space Telescopes, two of its most productive observatories, are facing operational cuts due to budget limitations. Hubble's budget has remained stagnant for a decade, decreasing its purchasing power, while proposed cuts to Webb's budget could reach 25%. This will likely result in fewer telescope modes, reduced user support, and staff reductions. While Webb is performing exceptionally well and has enough fuel for over 20 years, its operational budget, set in 2011, was optimistically low, compounded by inflation. Hubble, despite exceeding its lifespan, requires continued funding for operation. These cuts threaten the scientific output of both telescopes and represent a significant loss to the scientific community.