Core Viewpoint - The article highlights concerns within the American scientific community regarding budget cuts to research funding under President Trump's administration, particularly affecting the operations of the Rubin Observatory and other astronomical projects, potentially allowing China to surpass the U.S. in the field of astronomy [1][6]. Funding and Budget Cuts - President Trump's administration plans to cut the budget of the National Science Foundation (NSF), which could negatively impact the operation of the Rubin Observatory and halt other telescope projects [1]. - The NSF has invested nearly $600 million in the construction of the Rubin Observatory, with an additional $320 million from the Department of Energy, and it is expected to require $80 million annually once operational [1]. - The proposed budget for the 2026 fiscal year suggests a reduction of more than half of the NSF's funding, providing only $3.9 billion [5]. Project Development and Concerns - The Rubin Observatory is currently in the testing phase and is set to begin official operations in October, having already demonstrated significant observational capabilities [1][2]. - The Giant Magellan Telescope (GMT) project, located about 130 kilometers north of the Rubin Observatory, is still in early development, requiring an additional $1.3 billion from the NSF to ensure completion by 2035 [4]. - Concerns have been raised that budget cuts could lead to delays or even halt the construction and operation of both the Rubin Observatory and the GMT project [4][5]. Impact on Research and Workforce - The NSF's workforce has decreased from 1,800 to 1,100 employees, leading to concerns about the agency's functionality and the uncertainty surrounding funding for research projects [5]. - The reduction in funding has already affected graduate student recruitment in astronomy programs, as noted by a professor at the University of Pennsylvania [5][6]. - The lack of young researchers could hinder the effective utilization of the Rubin Observatory's data, as senior astronomers rely on graduate students and postdocs for data analysis [6]. Global Competition - American astronomers fear that reduced support for the Rubin Observatory and GMT could allow other countries, particularly China, to take the lead in astronomical research [6]. - China has already constructed the world's largest single-dish radio telescope and is developing additional projects in Argentina and Chile, indicating its capability to catch up with the U.S. in astronomy [1][6].