New York receives more than $100 million every year in NASA Science spending, generating tens of millions of dollars in economic activity every year and supporting over one thousand jobs in communities across the state. A highly informative dashboard generated by the Planetary Society breaks down these impacts on both a Statewide and Congressional District level, providing detail about the positive economic dynamics this spending has across New York.
Read the full Planetary Society Analysis HERE
Empire Space analyzed this data and has written this report to offer a detailed breakdown of NASA Science spending in New York and the economic impacts it has in each Congressional District. It also highlights the diverse array of research fields that New York companies and universities contribute to. NASA Science spending supports New Yorkers working hard and innovating every day in fields such as astrophysics, precision machining, optics, climate monitoring, and planetary exploration.
The federal funding dynamic as of the writing of this report (August of 2025) has seen some proposals call for very significant funding cuts to NASA Science. These cuts, if enacted, would result in significant reductions in investment across New York, jeopardizing key programs and putting hundreds of jobs at risk.
Empire Space hopes policymakers and stakeholders at all levels of government recognize the critical importance of NASA Science investment in these communities, supporting high-quality jobs and contributing to key American national security and research priorities.
Below is a district-by-district breakdown of NASA science investment. Each section details the companies, colleges, and institutions that funding supports, the priority focus areas funded in the district, and potential risks if funding is cut as much as proposed.
Total Annual NASA Science Spending in New York
$108,674,000 Average Annual Spending, 2022-2024
$304,587,000 Average Annual Economic Output from NASA Science Spending
1232 (+/-50) Estimated Jobs Supported by NASA Science Spending
-$51,294,000 Estimated NASA Science Funding Cuts to New York (as currently proposed)
-$137,401,000 Estimated Net Annual Economic Loss (if cuts enacted at proposed levels)
-417 Projected Job Losses (if cuts enacted at proposed levels)
New York Congressional District NASA Science Funding Breakdown
Congressional District: NY-01 Congressman Nick LaLota
District Summary
New York’s 1st Congressional district covers the eastern half of Long Island and is home to significant impacts from NASA Science spending including over $3 million in annual investment, $8 million in annual economic activity and support for 34 jobs. Major NASA Science contributions and focus areas from the district include planetary science, Mars habitability, astrobiology, Earth system modeling, and extreme weather prediction.
NASA Science Investment
$3 million Average annual NASA Science investment 2022-2024
$8.3 million Total annual NASA Science generated economic output
34 Estimated jobs supported by NASA Science spending
Key Institutions & Awardees
Stony Brook University, in partnership with the SUNY Research Foundation, has $235,000 in NASA Science contracts and has received over $20 million in NASA Science grants. Canon U.S.A., Inc. based in Melville has $4 million in contracts with NASA science, and AIP Publishing LLC, also in Melville, with another $164,536 in NASA science contracts.
Scientific Focus Areas
Planetary science: Mars, exoplanets, giant planet formation
Earth science: Remote sensing, winter storm modeling, Landsat monitoring
Astrobiology & cosmochemistry: Returned sample analysis via NSLS-II
Instrumentation: X-ray microprobe technology development
FY 2026 Proposed NASA Science Budget Cut Projected Total Impacts
Direct funding loss: –$1.4M
Economic loss: –$3.9M
Programmatic Threats
Loss of SUNY-led planetary research.
Shutdown of winter storm project (IMPACTS).
Restructuring of Landsat monitoring efforts.
Layoffs (20–30% RIF in Mission Support projected).
Congressional District: NY-02 Congressman Andrew Garbino
District Summary
New York’s 2nd Congressional District covers portions of southern Long Island and benefits from sustained NASA Science investment. The district receives $72,000 in annual investment, generating $202,000 in annual economic activity and supporting 0.8 jobs. NASA Science contributions from the district strengthen aerospace research, space optics, materials science, and planetary exploration.
NASA Science Investment
$72,000 Average annual NASA Science investment 2022–2024
$202,000 Total annual NASA Science-generated economic output
0.8 Estimated jobs supported by NASA Science spending
Key Institutions & Awardees
Raith America Inc., in Troy, has $2 million in NASA Science contracts for advanced anti-vibration platform development. Schenck Corp, based in Deer Park, has $57,627 in NASA Science contracts for precision balancing systems in aerospace. PLX Inc., also located in Deer Park, has $46,995 in NASA Science contracts for high-angular-precision optical systems. Bocsci Inc. supplies specialized chemical fluids for brassboard testing in NASA Science projects.
Scientific Focus Areas
Aerospace engineering: Precision manufacturing for flight systems and hardware.
Space optics: Advanced instrumentation and high-angular precision systems.
Structural dynamics: Anti-vibration platforms and stabilization technologies.
Materials science: Specialty fluids and materials for flight testing.
Planetary exploration: Contributions to Mars Sample Return and next-generation R&D.
FY 2026 Proposed Budget Cut Impacts
Direct Funding: –$34,000
Economic Loss: –$95,000
Programmatic Threats
Reduced procurement demand for optical and vibration-control systems.
Potential termination of Mars Sample Return (affecting suppliers directly).
Decreased demand for testing fluids and component materials.
Revenue and job loss risk for specialized manufacturing companies.
Congressional District: NY-06 Congresswoman Grace Meng
District Summary
New York’s 6th Congressional District (Queens) benefits directly from NASA Science funding, with $103,000 in annual investment, generating $288,000 in economic activity and supporting about 1.2 jobs. Institutions in the district play a vital role in space research and infrastructure, including Kepco, Inc. in Flushing, which provides power systems for the Mario Acuña Magnetic Test Site, and the Research Foundation of CUNY in Bayside, which advances heliophysics data analytics and space weather forecasting.
NASA Science Investment
$103,000 Average annual NASA Science investment 2022–2024
$288,000 Total annual NASA Science-generated economic output
1.2 Estimated jobs supported by NASA Science spending
Key Institutions & Awardees
Kepco, Inc., in Flushing, has $55,988 in NASA Science contracts to provide power supply systems for the Mario Acuña Magnetic Test Site. The Research Foundation of the City University of New York, in Bayside, has $150,000 in NASA Science grants for heliophysics data analytics and space weather research.
Scientific Focus Areas
Heliophysics and space weather forecasting.
National magnetic testing infrastructure support.
Sensitive instrument development for future space missions.
Power supply systems for space R&D.
STEM engagement and talent pipeline development.
FY 2026 Proposed Budget Cut Impacts
Direct Funding: –$48,000
Economic Loss: –$136,000
Programmatic Threats
Disruption to CUNY-led heliophysics research.
Degraded support for magnetic test facility operations.
Uncertainty in future equipment demand (e.g., Kepco contracts).
Undermining of STEM engagement and science education capacity in the district.
Congressional District: NY-07 Congresswoman Nydia Velázquez
District Summary
New York’s 7th Congressional District (Brooklyn) benefits significantly from NASA Science spending, with $1.7 million in annual investment, generating $4.7 million in economic activity and supporting about 19 jobs. The district is home to Honeybee Robotics, a key NASA partner advancing planetary robotics, along with CUNY-led Earth system science and Epner Technology’s specialized optical coatings. Together, these institutions anchor Brooklyn’s reputation as a hub for space robotics and climate science, with direct ties to flagship missions such as Mars Sample Return and Ocean Worlds exploration.
NASA Science Investment
$1.7 million Average annual NASA Science investment 2022–2024
$4.7 million Total annual NASA Science-generated economic output
19.2 Estimated jobs supported by NASA Science spending
Key Institutions & Awardees
Honeybee Robotics, Ltd., in Brooklyn, holds $19 million in NASA Science contracts and $5 million in grants for robotic drilling and sample handling systems used in lunar missions, Ocean Worlds exploration, and Mars Sample Return. Epner Technology Inc., also in Brooklyn, has $23,728 in NASA Science contracts for advanced optical and coating solutions. The Research Foundation of the City University of New York, based in Brooklyn, has $397,750 in NASA Science grants for urban climate science and Earth observation research.
Scientific Focus Areas
Planetary surface robotics: drilling, excavation, and sample handling technologies.
In-situ resource utilization (ISRU) systems for lunar and planetary missions.
Urban climate and Earth systems modeling, including urban heat island studies.
Advanced coatings and instrumentation for harsh space environments.
Support for Europa, Mars Sample Return, and other Ocean Worlds missions.
FY 2026 Proposed Budget Cut Impacts
Direct Funding: –$792,000
Economic Loss: –$2.2 million
Programmatic Threats
Termination of Mars Sample Return jeopardizes Honeybee Robotics’ key contracts.
Cuts to Earth Science threaten CUNY-led urban climate research.
Potential loss of innovation capacity from reduced Space Technology funding.
Local R&D jobs at high risk; erosion of Brooklyn’s space tech ecosystem.
Congressional District: NY-08 Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries
District Summary
New York’s 8th Congressional District (Brooklyn, Rep. Hakeem Jeffries) benefits from strong NASA Science engagement, with $915,000 in annual investment, generating $2.6 million in economic activity and supporting about 10 jobs. The district is anchored by CUNY-led planetary research and Honeybee Robotics’ advanced technology development, alongside smaller but vital suppliers such as Scientific Components Corp. Together, these institutions contribute to planetary exploration and the development of high-temperature electronics/ sterilization technologies critical for missions to Venus, Europa, and the Moon.
NASA Science Investment
$915,000 Average annual NASA Science investment 2022–2024
$2.6 million Total annual NASA Science-generated economic output
10.3 Estimated jobs supported by NASA Science spending
Key Institutions & Awardees
The Research Foundation of the City University of New York, in Brooklyn, holds $2 million in NASA Science grants for meteorite origin studies and lunar surface process analysis. Honeybee Robotics (HQ overlapping with NY-07/08 boundaries) supports NASA through the development of the SLUSH drill, Venus-durable electronics, and microbial sterilization systems for planetary protection. Scientific Components Corp., also in Brooklyn, has $15,038 in NASA Science contracts supplying specialty components for NASA research and development.
Scientific Focus Areas
Planetary surface and interior process research.
Advanced instrumentation for extreme planetary environments (e.g., Venus, Europa)
Microbial sterilization and clean-sampling technologies.
Silicon carbide electronics for high-temperature operations.
Meteorite analysis and early solar system research.
FY 2026 Proposed Budget Cut Impacts
Direct Funding: –$430,000
Economic Loss: –$1.2 million
Programmatic Threats
Honeybee Robotics’ Europa and Venus technology development may be terminated.
CUNY-led meteorite and planetary surface research risks elimination as “lower priority” science.
Loss of STEM engagement support threatens local education programs (e.g., Kingsborough Community College observatory)
Cuts undermine NY-08’s role in planetary exploration and scientific workforce development.
Congressional District: NY-09 Congresswoman Yvette Clarke
District Summary
New York’s 9th Congressional District covers central parts of Brooklyn, including the neighborhoods of Crown Heights, Flatbush, and Midwood. The district received NASA Science investment averaging $247,000 from 2022 to 2024, generating $693,000 in annual economic activity and supporting 2-3 jobs. Much of the focus of the districts' NASA Science investment revolves around community engagement in space and STEM.
NASA Science Investment
$247,000 Average Annual Direct Investment (FY22–24)
$693,000 Total Economic Output Generated Annually
2-3 Estimated Jobs Supported (based on 11.3 jobs per $1M spent)
Key Institutions & Awardees
The Citizen Science Association Inc. in Brooklyn has received $247,415 in NASA Science grants to support citizen science events fostering public participation in NASA scientific research.
Scientific & Technical Focus Areas
The space ecosystem in the 9th district focuses on a number of key NASA Science focus areas, including public engagement in scientific discovery, expansion of the national citizen science contributor base, advancement of STEM literacy through community participation, and integration of non-professional scientists into NASA data gathering and analysis efforts.
FY 2026 Proposed Budget Cut Impacts
Projected Direct Funding Loss: –$116,000
Estimated Economic Loss: –$326,000
Programmatic Threats
Elimination of citizen science events like the 2023 Brooklyn program.
Loss of local STEM engagement opportunities.
Reduced public access to NASA-supported science initiatives.
Degradation of the community-driven pipeline to scientific literacy and future innovation.
Congressional District: NY-10 Congressman Dan Goldman
District Summary
New York’s 10th Congressional District covers the lower sections of Manhattan including the Financial District, as well as significant portions of western Brooklyn including Downtown Brooklyn down to Borough Park. The district has seen an average of $1.4 million in annual NASA Science investment from 2022 to 2024, generating $4 million in annual economic output and supporting an estimated 15-16 jobs.
NASA Science Investment
$1.4 million Average Annual Direct NASA Science Investment (FY22–24)
$4.0 million Total Economic Output Generated Annually
15-16 Estimated Jobs Supported (based on 11.3 jobs per $1M spent)
Key Institutions & Awardees
New York University in Manhattan has received $5 million in NASA Science grants for their research in black hole evolution, dark matter, large-scale cosmic structure, and Earth system science applications including ocean-atmosphere modeling and climate data analytics.
The National Audubon Society in Manhattan has received $971,875 in NASA Science grants for projects using Earth observations to support biodiversity and migratory bird conservation.
The Springer Nature Center in Manhattan has received $185,279 in NASA Science contracts for scientific publishing and knowledge dissemination.
Bluefors Inc. in Brooklyn, NY has received $19,907 in NASA Science contracts for cryogenic systems and related scientific hardware.
The University of Cambridge’s Manhattan location has received $10,036 in NASA Science contracts for collaborative international research and data analysis.
Scientific & Technical Focus Areas
There are numerous NASA Science investment focus areas in the 10th district, including astrophysics and cosmology (binary black holes, dark matter, cosmic structure), Earth system science and climate modeling, ocean-atmosphere interactions and air quality analysis, biodiversity conservation using satellite and Earth observation data, and science communication and international collaboration.
FY 2026 Proposed Budget Cut Impacts
Projected Direct Funding Loss: –$670,000
Estimated Economic Loss: –$1.9 million
Programmatic Threats
Major disruption to NYU’s astrophysics and climate research initiatives.
Potential cancellation of satellite-based environmental studies and Earth science applications.
Elimination of National Audubon Society conservation work supported by NASA data.
Erosion of NY-10’s role in advancing both fundamental and applied space science.
Congressional District: NY-12 Congressman Jerry Nadler
District Summary
New York’s 12th Congressional District covers much of Midtown Manhattan, including Central Park, the Empire State Building, and Times Square. The district saw a sizable $3.5 million average annual NASA Science investment from 2022 to 2024, generating $9.8 million in annual economic output and supporting 39-40 jobs. Key focus areas include exoplanet research, climate modeling and citizen engagement, and human spaceflight biology.
NASA Science Investment
$3.5 million Average Annual Direct NASA Science Investment (FY22–24)
$9.8 million Total Economic Output Generated by NASA SciAnnually
39-40 Estimated Jobs Supported (based on 11.3 jobs per $1M spent)
Key Institutions & Awardees
The American Museum of Natural History in Manhattan has received $19 million in NASA Science grants for research in exoplanet characterization, solar system formation, and biodiversity monitoring via remote sensing. Also serves as a key hub for informal science education and STEM engagement.
The Research Foundation of the City University of New York in Manhattan has received $5 million in NASA Science grants for projects in global climate modeling, Earth system science, and citizen science education (e.g., GLOBE program).
Weill Cornell Medicine in Manhattan has partnered with NASA Science on pioneering studies into the biological effects of spaceflight and human health in space environments.
Elsevier Inc. in Manhattan has received $55,416 in NASA Science contracts to support scientific publishing and data dissemination.
Scientific & Technical Focus Areas
A number of key NASA Science priorities are addressed by work occurring in the 12th district, including exoplanet discovery and solar system origins research, climate change modeling and citizen science education, biodiversity conservation using Earth observation data, human biology in spaceflight conditions, and public science outreach through museums and higher education.
FY 2026 Proposed Budget Cut Impacts
Projected Direct Funding Loss: –$1.6 million
Estimated Economic Loss: –$4.6 million
Programmatic Threats
Sharp reductions to AMNH’s astrophysics and biodiversity research.
Jeopardized climate modeling and environmental science at CUNY.
Elimination of public education and informal science programs, including GLOBE and museum outreach.
Loss of local jobs and diminished capacity for space biology research at Weill Cornell.
Erosion of NY-12’s leadership in interdisciplinary space science and STEM education.
Congressional District: NY-13 Congressman Adriano Espillat
District Summary
New York’s 13th Congressional District covers western sections of the Bronx and northern sections of Manhattan in New York City and is a significant hub for NASA Science investment in New York State. The 13th district received an average of $24.7 million annually in NASA Science investment between 2022 and 2024, generating an average of $69.3 million in annual economic activity and supporting an estimated 279 jobs.
NASA Science Investment
$24.7 million Average Annual Direct Investment (FY22–24)
$69.3 million Total Economic Output Generated Annually
279 Estimated Jobs Supported (based on 11.3 jobs per $1M spent)
Key Institutions & Awardees
Columbia University in Morningside Heights in Manhattan has received $111 million in NASA Science grants and $35 million in contracts. The University is a leader in Earth system modeling, climate impact analysis, astrobiology, astrophysics, and data infrastructure for astromaterials.
The Research Foundation of the City University of New York has received $7 million in NASA Science grants to support environmental and planetary science initiatives.
Reflective X-Ray Optics, LLC in Manhattan has received $4 million in NASA Science grants for the development of advanced optical systems for astrophysical instrumentation.
Scientific & Technical Focus Areas
Key focus areas for NASA Science investment in the 13th district include global climate modeling and actionable climate intelligence, habitability studies and astrobiology, dark matter and cosmic structure research, astromaterials data curation and research infrastructure, and remote sensing for Earth science application.
FY 2026 Proposed Budget Cut Impacts
Projected Direct Funding Loss: –$11.6 million
Estimated Economic Loss: –$32.6 million
Estimated Jobs at Risk: ~116 positions
Programmatic Threats
Termination of flagship Earth science projects at Columbia University and NASA’s Goddard Institute for Space Studies (GISS).
Major disruption to astrophysics and astrobiology research.
Undermining NY-13's scientific workforce and data infrastructure.
Loss of national leadership in climate research and scientific discovery.
Congressional District: NY-14 Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez
District Summary
New York’s 14th Congressional District covers eastern sections of the Bronx and northern sections of Queens in New York City. The district received an average of $147,000 annually in NASA Science investment from 2022 to 2024, generating an average of $411,000 in annual economic activity and supporting 1-2 jobs.
NASA Science Investment
$147,000 Average Annual Direct Investment (FY22–24)
$411,000 Total Economic Output Generated Annually
1-2 Estimated Jobs Supported (based on 11.3 jobs per $1M spent)
Key Institutions & Awardees
FlightSafety International Inc. in Flushing, Queen has received a portion of a $1 million NASA Science contract, providing specialized Gulfstream training for NASA’s airborne science pilots, enabling safe deployment of research aircraft critical to atmospheric and Earth science missions.
Scientific & Technical Focus Areas
There are a number of NASA Science focus areas in the 14th district, including advanced pilot training for NASA Earth science missions, atmospheric and environmental research operations, and national readiness in sensor development and deployment.
FY 2026 Proposed Budget Cut Impacts
Projected Direct Funding Loss: –$69,000
Estimated Economic Loss: –$193,000
Programmatic Threats
Reduced or eliminated training contracts with FlightSafety International.
Job losses in specialized aviation services within NY-14.
Erosion of NASA’s airborne operations readiness.
Decreased capacity to conduct vital atmospheric and environmental monitoring missions.
Congressional District: NY-15 Congressman Ritchie Torres
District Summary
New York’s 15th Congressional District covers large sections of the Bronx, particularly the central, northern, and western parts of the borough. There is fairly significant NASA Science investment in the district, averaging $582,000 annually from 2022 to 2024, generating $1.6 million in annual economic output and supporting 6-7 local jobs. Key focus areas include climate modeling and heliophysics education.
NASA Science Investment
$582,000 Average Annual NASA Science Direct Investment (FY22–24)
$1.6 million Total NASA Science Investment Economic Output Generated Annually
6-7 Estimated Jobs Supported (based on 11.3 jobs per $1M spent)
Key Institutions & Awardees
The Wildlife Conservation Society has received $2 million in NASA Science grants for their development of near-real-time biodiversity mapping and ecological models using NASA Earth observation data on cloud platforms.
Climate Aerosol & Pollution Research LLC has received $665,633 in NASA Science grants, where they advance NASA GISS climate models, focusing on mineral dust and atmospheric composition, validated through satellite data.
The New York Botanical Garden has received $540,154 in NASA Science grants to conduct research on mass extinctions and ecological baselines using NASA data.
Polyneme LLC has received NASA Science support for the creation of curriculum and technical infrastructure to support heliophysics education and access to NASA’s cloud-based data archives.
Scientific & Technical Focus Areas
The 15th district space ecosystem focused on key NASA Science priorities including atmospheric modeling and climate impacts (e.g., mineral dust refinement), development of satellite-based biodiversity monitoring and conservation tools, heliophysics education and cloud-data infrastructure development, and paleoclimate and extinction event studies.
FY 2026 Proposed Budget Cut Impacts
Projected Direct Funding Loss: –$274,000
Estimated Economic Loss: –$766,000
Programmatic Threats
High risk of termination for climate modeling and satellite-based conservation tools.
Loss of biodiversity mapping and real-time ecological monitoring capacity.
Elimination of heliophysics educational infrastructure and access initiatives.
Reduced support for NYBG’s extinction and environmental research.
Job losses and a diminished scientific innovation pipeline within NY-15.
Congressional District: NY-16 Congressman George Latimer
District Summary
New York’s 16th Congressional District covers Westchester County and the lower Hudson Valley immediately north of New York City, including the city of Yonkers. There is NASA Science investment in the district, with an average annual investment of $96,000 between 2022 and 2024, generating $270,000 in annual economic output and supporting 1-2 jobs. Key focus areas of this investment include high-performance instrumentation and computational modeling.
NASA Science Investment
$96,000 Average Annual Direct Investment (FY22–24)
$270,000 Total Economic Output Generated Annually
1-2 Estimated Jobs Supported (based on 11.3 jobs per $1M spent)
Key Institutions & Awardees
Arrow Electronics, Inc. operates in the town of Purchase, NY and has received $158,250 in NASA Science contracts. They supply advanced analog and digital integrated circuits used in space-qualified instrumentation and remote sensing systems, including High Spectral Resolution Lidar (HSRL).
Scientific & Technical Focus Areas
The key NASA Science focus areas in the 16th district include high-performance analog/digital ICs for space instrumentation, remote sensing systems, including lidar-based technologies, and computational modeling tools for mission simulation and scientific discovery.
FY 2026 Proposed Budget Cut Impacts
Projected Direct Funding Loss: –$45,000
Estimated Economic Loss: –$127,000
Programmatic Threats
Probable termination of integrated circuit development for Earth observation projects (e.g., Clio HSRL EDU).
Disruption to GridPro software support for NASA mission modeling.
Potential job losses and reduced R&D activity at companies like Arrow Electronics.
Constrained innovation in critical component technologies essential to mission success.
Congressional District: NY-17 Congressman Mike Lawler
District Summary
New York’s 17th Congressional District covers the lower Hudson Valley north of New York City, including the communities of Ossining and Tarrytown. The district received an average of $3.9 million annually between 2022 and 2024 in NASA Science investment, supporting an annual economic output of $10.9 million and supporting roughly 44 jobs. Key focus areas of the local space economy include climate modeling, semiconductors, and precision equipment development.
NASA Science Investment
$3.9 million Average Annual NASA Science Direct Investment (FY22–24)
$10.9 million Total Economic Output Generated Annually
44 Estimated Jobs Supported (based on 11.3 jobs per $1M spent)
Key Institutions & Awardees
The Socioeconomic Data and Applications Center (SEDAC) at Columbia University receives support from NASA Science for their work in global climate research by archiving and distributing Earth science datasets used in policy, public health, disaster management, and environmental planning.
Teledyne Lecroy, Inc. in Spring Valley has $98,401 in NASA Science contracts for their supply of advanced instrumentation, sensors, and components for space science and technology.
Teledyne Digital Imaging US, Inc. in Chestnut Ridge holds $48,102 in NASA Science contracts, providing imaging systems and sensor technologies for space missions.
FJG Chemical LLC in Baldwin Place holds $208,067 in NASA Science contracts for their work in specialty chemicals and components supporting scientific instrumentation.
Scientific & Technical Focus Areas
The space ecosystem in the 17th district has a range of focus areas, including global Earth science data infrastructure, socioeconomic and climate resilience modeling, developing advanced semiconductors and sensor systems for space instruments, and precision test equipment for next-generation mission hardware.
FY 2026 Proposed Budget Cut Impacts
Projected Direct Funding Loss: –$1.8 million
Estimated Economic Loss: –$5.1 million
Programmatic Threats
Columbia’s SEDAC may face severe operational disruptions or downsizing.
Earth science data distribution and climate policy support efforts are jeopardized.
Reduced demand for critical tech from regional suppliers like Teledyne and FJG Chemical.
Local job losses and weakening of NY-17’s contributions to the national research ecosystem.
Congressional District: NY-18 Congressman Pat Riley
District Summary
New York’s 18th Congressional District covers much of the Mid-Hudson region, centered around the cities of Poughkeepsie, Kingston, and Newburgh. The district attracts $115,000 in average annual NASA Science direct investment, and NASA Science generates $321,000 in annual economic activity, enough to support roughly 2 jobs in the district. Key focus areas for local space ecosystem partners include X-ray astronomy and black hole physics, Earth monitoring, and advanced materials research and development.
NASA Science Investment
$115,000 Average Annual Direct Investment (FY22–24)
$321,000 Total Economic Output Generated Annually
2 Estimated Jobs Supported (based on 11.3 jobs per $1M spent)
Key Institutions & Awardees
Spectra Vista Corporation in Poughkeepsie, NY) has received $280,905 in NASA Science contracts for the supply of field spectroradiometers used in Earth observation missions, including Surface Biology and Geology (SBG) studies.
Zircar Ceramics, Inc. in Florida (NY) has received $25,894 in NASA Science contracts for the production of advanced ceramic components, including support for space power systems (e.g., Stirling converters using Pu-238).
Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies in Millbrook, NY has received $127,308 in NASA Science grants, enabling them to conduct critical environmental science related to surface biology, ecosystem response, and planetary health.
Bard College in Annandale-on-Hudson has received $114,160 in NASA Science grants, advancing X-ray astrophysics through research on black holes and galactic structures using data from NuSTAR and EHT.
Scientific & Technical Focus Areas
The space ecosystem in the 18th district supports numerous focus areas, including X-ray astronomy and black hole physics, Earth surface monitoring using field spectroscopy, ecosystem modeling and environmental biology, and developing advanced materials for space systems and power conversion.
FY 2026 Proposed Budget Cut Impacts
Projected Direct Funding Loss: –$54,000
Estimated Economic Loss: –$151,000
Programmatic Threats
Termination of Surface Biology and Geology (SBG) projects halting ecosystem research at Cary Institute.
Cancellation of astrophysics missions (e.g., Chandra) threatens Bard College’s space science work.
Reduced demand for Earth science instruments may destabilize Spectra Vista’s operations.
Cuts to Space Technology programs could eliminate use cases for Zircar Ceramics’ Stirling-related products.
Loss of local STEM opportunities and erosion of NY-18’s role in Earth and space science innovation.
Congressional District: NY-19 Congressman Josh Riley
District Summary
New York’s 19th Congressional District spans much of the mid-section of the state, from the Hudson Valley in the east to Ithaca in the west. The district is home to significant annual NASA Science impacts, including $6.6 million in direct investment, $18.5 in annual generated economic output, and support for roughly 75 jobs.
NASA Science Investment
$6.6 million Average Annual Direct Investment (FY22–24)
$18.5 million Total Economic Output Generated Annually
75 Estimated Jobs Supported (based on 11.3 jobs per $1M spent)
Key Institutions & Awardees
Cornell University in Ithaca, NY holds $33 million in NASA Science grants and $2 million in contracts. Leader in Earth and planetary science research including remote sensing for climate monitoring and hazard response, global plant disease surveillance, studies on the habitability of ocean worlds and exoplanet systems, as well as development of astronomical instrumentation for dark matter/energy studies.
Grammatech, Inc. in Ithaca, NY holds a $84,833 NASA Science contract to provide software and cybersecurity solutions supporting scientific and mission-critical NASA applications.
Druyan-Sagan Associates, Inc. in Ithaca has a $25,000 NASA Science contract supporting science communication and education aligned with NASA’s mission.
Scientific & Technical Focus Areas
The 19th district’s space ecosystem includes numerous important focus areas. They include remote sensing and environmental monitoring (for volcanoes, storms, crops), climate science using satellite data (e.g., OCO-2/3, Landsat), and astrophysics using Euclid data and novel instrumentation. Other key focus areas include planetary science for Mars, ocean worlds, and habitability, advanced computing and software security for NASA missions, and public engagement through science media and outreach.
FY 2026 Proposed Budget Cut Impacts
Projected Direct Funding Loss: –$3.1 million
Estimated Economic Loss: –$8.7 million
Estimated Jobs at Risk: ~31
Programmatic Threats
65% cut to Astrophysics threatens dark matter/exoplanet research using Euclid.
53% Earth Science reduction undermines hazard detection, climate modeling, and Landsat Next continuity.
30% cut to Planetary Science jeopardizes exploration of Mars volatiles and ocean worlds.
80% cut to Biological & Physical Sciences eliminates critical life sciences R&D.
Loss of federal research dollars would significantly reduce student opportunities and innovation capacity at Cornell.
Risk of high-tech job losses and long-term damage to NY-19’s leadership in Earth and space sciences.
Congressional District: NY-20 Congressman Paul Tonko
District Summary
New York’s 20th Congressional District includes the State Capital of Albany and areas to the north and west up to Saratoga Springs. The district is home to significant NASA Science impacts, including an average annual direct investment of $3.5 million between 2022 and 2024, with a total generated annual economic output of $9.7 million, supporting roughly 40 jobs across the district. Major focus areas include space biology and astronaut health, climate modeling, and advanced materials development.
NASA Science Investment
$3.5 million Average Annual Direct Investment (FY22–24)
$9.7 million Total Annual Economic Output Generated by NASA Science Investment
40 Estimated Jobs Supported (based on 11.3 jobs per $1M spent)
Key Institutions & Awardees
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy has received $12 million in NASA Science grants and $1 million in contracts. This investment supports astrobiology and life detection studies for ocean worlds, space biology research on health in microgravity environments, and develops advanced materials for space applications.
Research Foundation for SUNY Albany, NY has received $3 million in NASA Science grants, with a focus on Earth system modeling for climate dynamics and aerosol-cloud interactions, as well as global environmental monitoring and storm prediction.
General Electric Company in Niskayuna, NY has received $994,323 in NASA Science grants and $505,950 in contracts. They develop high-temperature electronics, power systems, and thermal management technologies for space systems.
Scientific & Technical Focus Areas
Major focus areas of the 20th district’s space ecosystem include studies into the origins of life and development of astrobiology instrumentation. Other focus areas include space biology and astronaut health, climate modeling, tropical cyclone prediction, and aerosol studies, and advanced materials and electronics for extreme space environments.
FY 2026 Proposed Budget Cut Impacts
Projected Direct Funding Loss: –$1.6 million
Estimated Economic Loss: –$4.5 million
Programmatic Threats
RPI’s space biology initiatives face elimination under an 80% cut to Biological & Physical Sciences.
SUNY Albany’s climate and atmospheric science projects would be undermined by a 53% Earth Science reduction and cancellation of Terra, Aqua, and Landsat Next missions.
General Electric's R&D on space systems may lose critical funding, disrupting innovation and high-tech employment.
Union College planetary science work likely halted due to cuts to Planetary Science and Astrophysics.
Loss of future workforce development opportunities and erosion of NY-20’s role in national climate and space science leadership.
Congressional District: NY-21 Congresswoman Elsie Stefanik
District Summary
New York’s 21st Congressional District covers much of the North Country, including Adirondack State Park. The district receives modest NASA Science spending, with annual 2022-2024 average investment of $375,000, an annual economic impact of $1 million, which supports 4-5 jobs in the district.
NASA Science Investment
$375,000 Average Annual Direct NASA Science Investment (FY22–24)
$1.0 million Total Annual Economic Output Generated by NASA Science $
4-5 Estimated Jobs Supported (based on 11.3 jobs per $1M spent)
Key Institutions & Awardees
Phoebus Optoelectronics LLC, with locations in both Ithaca & Potsdam, has received $2 million in NASA Science grants for developing miniaturized hyperspectral imaging systems, supporting remote sensing for atmospheric trace gases and aerosol measurements, and developing technologies applicable to CubeSats and Earth observation missions
Research Foundation for SUNY Plattsburgh, NY has received $1 million in NASA Science grants to conduct planetary science research on asteroid Ryugu samples. Supporting work includes investigations into Martian brine formation and pre-biotic chemistry and support for NASA missions like OSIRIS-REx/APEX and MAVEN.
Scientific & Technical Focus Areas
The space ecosystem in New York’s 21st Congressional District include hyperspectral imaging for environmental monitoring, CubeSat instrumentation development, asteroid and Martian surface chemistry analysis, and prebiotic organic analysis and planetary habitability.
FY 2026 Proposed Budget Cut Impacts
Projected Direct Funding Loss: –$176,000
Estimated Economic Loss: –$493,000
Programmatic Threats
53% Earth Science cut imperils Phoebus Optoelectronics' remote sensing innovations and related job growth.
Cancellation of missions like Landsat Next, Terra, and OCO-2/3 would eliminate future applications for Phoebus's technology.
The 30% Planetary Science cut jeopardizes SUNY-Plattsburgh’s Ryugu and Mars brine research, including future collaboration on missions like OSIRIS-APEX and Mars Sample Return.
Risks reduction in STEM training opportunities and weakens NY-21’s role in planetary science and aerospace R&D.
Congressional District: NY-22 Congressman Joe Mannion
District Summary
New York’s 22nd Congressional District covers the Central region of the state, covering Metro Syracuse and areas to the south and east. The district received an annual NASA Science direct investment of $504,000 from 2022 to 2024, and an associated annual economic output of $1.4 million. This activity supports an estimated 5-6 jobs in the district. Focus areas of the local space economy in the 22nd district include lunar surface instrumentation, planetary and climate modeling for Earth and Mars, and cryogenics manufacturing.
NASA Science Investment
$504,000 Average Annual Direct Investment (FY22–24)
$1.4 million Total Economic Output Generated Annually
5-6 Estimated Jobs Supported (based on 11.3 jobs per $1M spent)
Key Institutions & Awardees
Distributed Technology Group LLC in Syracuse, NY has received $19 million in NASA Science contracts, providing high-precision technical services for NASA science programs and supporting systems integration and hardware development for research missions.
Inficon INC, located in East Syracuse, has received $1 million in NASA Science contracts developing volatile detection instruments for the VIPER lunar rover, and other contributions to lunar surface exploration instrumentation.
Cryomech, Inc. of Syracuse has received $66,210 in NASA Science contracts, specializing in cryogenic systems essential for space instrumentation, supporting astrophysics and planetary missions with advanced cooling technology.
The Research Foundation for SUNY in Syracuse has received $2 million in NASA Science grants), supporting satellite-based Earth observations and land-use change research and developing snowmelt modeling tools for climate monitoring.
Syracuse University has received $762,501 in NASA Science grants, supporting research on tidal disruption events in astrophysics and supporting theoretical and computational modeling of cosmic phenomena.
Colgate University in Hamilton has received $610,594 in NASA Science grants, studying Martian glacial landforms to support planetary geology missions, contributing to greater understanding of climate processes on Mars.
Scientific & Technical Focus Areas
Major focus areas of the 22nd district space ecosystem include lunar surface instrumentation via the VIPER mission, Earth system science and snowpack modeling, and astrophysics, tidal disruption events and black hole dynamics. Other specialty areas include analysis of Martian glacial processes and surface geology and cryogenics and advanced aerospace manufacturing.
FY 2026 Proposed Budget Cut Impacts
Projected Direct Funding Loss: –$237,000
Estimated Economic Loss: –$664,000
Programmatic Threats
Cancellation of VIPER mission eliminates Inficon’s instrumentation development.
53% Earth Science cut undermines SUNY and Syracuse University’s climate and land-use research.
39% Space Science cut threatens astrophysics programs at Syracuse and Colgate.
Reduced NASA funding lowers demand for local manufacturers like Cryomech and Distributed Technology Group.
STEM pipeline and R&D capabilities weakened, jeopardizing high-tech job growth and scientific advancement in NY-22.
Congressional District: NY-24 Congresswoman Claudia Tenney
District Summary
New York’s 24th Congressional District follows much of the rural southern shoreline of Lake Ontario, excluding the Metro Rochester area. The district receives modest benefits from NASA Science spending, amounting to $108,000 in annual direct investment, $303,000 in resulting annual economic output, and enough support for 1-2 total jobs. Major focus areas in the local space sector include planetary geology and precision optics and specialty manufacturing.
NASA Science Investment
$108,000 Average Annual Direct Investment (FY22–24)
$303,000 Total Economic Output Generated Annually
1-2 Estimated Jobs Supported (based on 11.3 jobs per $1M spent)
Key Institutions & Awardees
Trek Inc. is based in Lockport and holds $68,940 in NASA Science contracts providing high-voltage instrumentation for aerospace research, enhancing NASA’s capabilities in advanced testing and measurement.
Edwards Vacuum LLC in Sanborn has received $17,164 in NASA Science contracts, supplying vacuum systems critical to space instrumentation and testing.
The Research Foundation for SUNY Geneseo has received $220,335 in NASA Science grants. This work supports planetary geology and mission operations for NASA’s Mars InSight mission, which contributes to understanding the Martian interior and planetary evolution.
Hobart & William Smith College in Geneva has received $23,618 in NASA Science grants conducting astrophysics research, strengthening student engagement and academic inquiry in space science.
Scientific & Technical Focus Areas
Major focus areas of the 24th district’s space economy include planetary geology and Mars interior modeling due to work on the InSight mission. Other speciality areas include high-precision optics and photonics for space instruments, advanced manufacturing and metrology, and fundamental astrophysics and academic STEM training.
FY 2026 Proposed Budget Cut Impacts
Projected Direct Funding Loss: –$51,000
Estimated Economic Loss: –$143,000
Programmatic Threats
Research Foundation for SUNY’s support role on Mars InSight faces disruption from funding reductions.
Hobart & William Smith’s astrophysics efforts jeopardized by 65% cut to NASA Astrophysics and major grant reductions.
Earth and planetary instrumentation suppliers like Toptica Photonics, Trek Inc., and Edwards Vacuum likely to face reduced demand.
Undermines specialized STEM jobs, weakens local aerospace supply chain, and threatens future contributions to national science priorities.
Congressional District: NY-25 Congressman Joseph Morelle
District Summary
New York’s 25th Congressional District covers Metro Rochester on the south shore of Lake Ontario in the Finger Lakes Region of the state. The district is home to significant NASA Science investments, totaling just over $56 million annually, generating $158 million in annual economic activity and supporting an estimated 636 jobs. Major scientific focus areas in the 25th district include optical telescope development, astrophysics and planetary formation research, and precision manufacturing.
NASA Science Investment
$56.3 million Average Annual Direct NASA Science Investment (FY22–24)
$158 million Total Economic Output Generated Annually: $158 million
636 jobs Estimated Jobs Supported (based on 11.3 jobs per $1M spent)
Key Institutions & Awardees
L3Harris Technologies Inc. in Rochester handles roughly $409 million in NASA Science contracts, including the development of high-precision optical telescope assemblies for next-generation space missions. They are major contributors to the Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope and planned future observational platforms.
The Rochester Institute of Technology has received $16 million in NASA Science grants, including their leadership in research in astrophysics and cosmic background studies, the development of advanced detectors (CMOS, digital micromirrors) and calibrations for Landsat sensors. They also contribute to Earth science and space instrumentation research and development.
The University of Rochester has received $6 million in NASA Science grants, conducting planetary science on lunar formation, meteorite magnetometry, and ocean dynamics as well as supporting foundational research in astrophysics and geophysics.
Aktiwave LLC based in Rochester has received $793,977 in NASA Science contracts to innovate in mid-infrared photonics for NASA sensor platforms.
Comtec Solutions LLC in Rochester has received $475,890 in NASA Science contracts to provide engineering and software support services.
Toptica Photonics Inc. in Pittsford holds $159,960 in NASA Science contracts, developing precision optical systems for NASA missions and supports metrology and photonics for advanced sensing technologies.
The Research Foundation for SUNY Brockport has received $153,629 in NASA Science grants to support smaller-scale research and student engagement in planetary science.
Scientific & Technical Focus Areas
Major focus areas of the 25th district space economy include optical telescope systems and sensor technology, astrophysics, and lunar and planetary formation research. Other key areas include mid-infrared photonics and space instrumentation and the development of ocean dynamics and climate observation tools.
FY 2026 Proposed Budget Cut Impacts
Projected Direct Funding Loss: –$26.5 million
Estimated Economic Loss: –$74.1 million
Estimated Jobs at Risk: ~265
Programmatic Threats
L3Harris Technologies faces disruption from the 65% Astrophysics cut, threatening Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope work.
RIT and University of Rochester research may be halted due to mission cancellations (e.g., Chandra, Fermi, New Horizons, Landsat Next).
Deep cuts across NASA’s science divisions threaten specialized instruments and astrophysics innovations.
30–80% grant reductions risk terminating academic and student-led space science projects.
Local high-tech workforce pipeline—including T&T Materials and component suppliers—face severe downsizing.
Congressional District: NY-26 Congressman Tim Kennedy
District Summary
New York’s 26th Congressional District covers the cities of Buffalo and Niagara Falls and their suburbs in far western New York. The 26th District is home to a dynamic regional space economy that receives annual NASA Science direct investment of $810,000, with an associated annual economic output of $2.3 million and support for 9-10 jobs. Key focus areas include propulsion system development, atmospheric modeling, and precision manufacturing.
NASA Science Investment
$810,000 Average AnnualNASA Science Direct Investment (FY22–24)
$2.3 million Total Annual NASA Science Generated Economic Output
9-10 Estimated Jobs Supported by NASA Science Spending
Key Institutions & Awardees
Moog Inc. has multiple locations throughout Metro Buffalo and holds $7 million in NASA Science contracts, including supplying flight engines for Europa exploration missions and other propulsion systems for deep space and planetary science programs.
Taber Acquisition Corp. of North Tonawanda holds $503,970 in NASA Science contracts, with a focus on manufacturing precision aerospace components and supports hardware for missions like the Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope.
Edwards Vacuum LLC of Sanborn holds $221,700 in NASA Science contracts, including providing vacuum systems critical to astrophysics and astrochemistry instrumentation.
The Research Foundation for SUNY conducts work in Amherst and receives $5 million in NASA Science grants, conducting research on sea-level rise, atmospheric composition, and cryosphere dynamics and contributing to major Earth Science missions including Terra, Aqua, and Aura.
Daemen University in Buffalo, NY receives $93,262 in NASA Science grants, supporting educational and early-stage scientific research in space-related disciplines.
Scientific & Technical Focus Areas
Major areas of focus in the 26th District space ecosystem include planetary propulsion systems and deep space flight hardware, cryosphere and sea-level change modeling, atmospheric composition monitoring and Earth observation, and precision component manufacturing and vacuum technologies for space applications.
FY 2026 Proposed NASA Science Budget Cut Projected Total Impacts
Projected Direct Funding Loss: –$381,000
Estimated Economic Loss: –$1.1 million
Estimated Jobs at Risk: ~4.3
Programmatic Threats
SUNY Buffalo’s climate science and cryosphere research faces severe setbacks from Earth Science mission cancellations (Terra, Aqua, Aura).
Biological and Physical Sciences cuts (80%) threaten ongoing flame spread studies and related research.
Loss of grant funding jeopardizes faculty positions, student opportunities, and data continuity.
Local manufacturers, including Edwards Vacuum and Kistler Instrument Corp., face reduced demand for specialized hardware, risking skilled jobs and R&D capacity.
Undermines regional leadership in advanced manufacturing and climate science.
Conclusion
Thank you for reading this report and learning more about the NASA Science investment happening across New York and the benefits it brings in economic activity, jobs, and research opportunities.
According to this report, NASA Science spending in New York averaged almost $109 million dollars per year between 2022 and 2024, generating an average annual economic impact of over $304 million dollars and supporting 1,200-1,300 jobs. Proposed NASA Science budget cuts would slash almost $52 million of that funding, costing New York over $137 million dollars in annual economic activity and potentially costing the state over 400 jobs.
Empire Space hopes space ecosystem stakeholders that benefit from NASA Science spending and partnerships highlight these successes in their communities and with their local leaders. The budget cycle still has many months left, and these cuts could be modified before becoming law.
Regardless of the specific numbers, this report highlights that New York has a dynamic space ecosystem bolstered by significant NASA Science spending that is supporting critical research, creating high-quality jobs, and generating hundreds of millions of dollars in economic activity in every corner of the state.