A growing conflict between Donald Trump and Elon Musk is threatening NASA’s future. As Musk’s SpaceX remains vital to NASA’s missions, Trump has warned of terminating government contracts. A proposed budget cut could slash scientific funding by half, risking 40 missions. Though Moon and Mars programs are prioritized, long-term exploration and global collaborations are in doubt. Experts fear a shift from scientific goals to political motives. Reduced support for private players like SpaceX and Blue Origin may further destabilize U.S. space research and international partnerships.