Last week, the Senate appropriations subcommittee approved a NASA budget for FY00 which significantly decreases funding for the Office of Space Science below the amount requested by the president. Although there are differences between the Senate's appropriation for NASA and the House's appropriation for NASA, final passage of either will have a significant impact on a number of space science activities.

Due to the uncertain status of the NASA appropriation, the Office of Space Science is unable at this time to make a selection in the MIDEX program. No selection will be made until an appropriation bill for NASA is passed by the Congress and signed into law by the President.

In the event that the final budget is similar to that passed by the Senate, it may be possible to select a single MIDEX mission. In the event that the final budget is similar to that passed by the House, it may not be possible to select any MIDEX missions.

This represents a change from NASA's previously announced intent to select and announce, but not begin development of, two MIDEX missions. The evolving status of the NASA appropriation, and the increased possibility of a significant reduction in funding from previous years, have led to this change in plans.

If you have any questions concerning NASA's plans for the MIDEX selection, please contact Paul Hertz, the MIDEX Program Scientist.

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NASA Headquarters Responsible Office: Code SR
Last Updated: 20 September 1999
Author: Paul Hertz (Code SR)