NASA is bracing itself for tough choices after a pending $6 billion budget reduction, which was cautioned by its leadership. The administrator of the agency notified staff that the projected reduction in federal funding will most likely impact future missions, hiring, and long-term study objectives. Regardless of NASA’s recent success with endeavors such as the Artemis and Mars programs, the financial pressure may slow down advancement and compel the prioritization of priority programs. The warning highlights the dilemma for space agencies in keeping up with innovation while grappling with fiscal realities.