NASA has announced the closure of three major offices and the elimination of 23 positions as part of a cost-cutting initiative under the Trump administration’s directives. The affected offices include the Office of Chief Scientist, the Office of Technology, Policy, and Strategy, and the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) branch.
A NASA spokesperson confirmed that the layoffs are part of a broader effort to streamline government operations. Employees impacted by the reduction in force (RIF) have the option of voluntary early retirement or completing the transition process.
Also Read: NASA Closes Key Offices, Eliminates 23 Positions Amid Workforce Reductions
The Office of Chief Scientist, responsible for advising NASA leadership on scientific programs, and the DEIA branch, which worked on inclusion efforts, played a crucial role in the agency’s operations. Katherine Calvin, NASA’s current chief scientist, is among those affected by the restructuring.
Reports suggest that the Trump administration plans to cut NASA’s science budget by up to 50% in the next fiscal year, raising concerns about the future of long-term research projects. The upcoming budget proposal is expected to provide more clarity on the space agency’s direction.
