Trump Administration Cuts Pollution Monitoring from Next-Generation Weather Satellites

The decision follows the administration’s pattern of scaling back climate-related initiatives. A budget document emphasized that weather forecasting, not climate monitoring, should be the satellites’ “exclusive” focus. The move reduces the program’s projected cost from $18 billion to about $12 billion, though experts caution that losing key instruments could cost more in long-term environmental and public health impacts.

Critics say the cutback also risks U.S. leadership in Earth observation, especially as other nations advance air quality and ocean monitoring capabilities. The instruments were already under contract with BAE Systems, meaning taxpayers may also face cancellation fees.

The changes are drawing concern not only for reduced climate monitoring but also for weakening system reliability. With fewer satellites in orbit, NOAA could face higher risks of data outages in the future. “It’s gambling with the continuity of an operational system that we’ve relied on since the early 70s,” the NOAA official added.

If the administration’s broader budget proposal is approved, it would also shut down NOAA’s greenhouse gas monitoring network and close other research facilities. Congress is currently reviewing those plans.

Credit: CNN Newsource

Explore: NBCPalmSprings.com, where we are connecting the Valley.