Excellent post!
However, one relevant thing that was not addressed is international relations. If NASA were the only space agency in the world, it would be straightforward to recommend the above budget cuts. However, would it be beneficial for the United States to lose its superiority in space to other (perhaps non-democratic) nations?
From my understanding, democracy is the form of government that is most favorable for effective altruism, all things considered, so it may be beneficial for the US to maintain its superiority in space.
Curious to hear replies and other perspectives!
I would consider this to be a “productive” use of time!