NASA Faces Major Cuts Threatening Science Missions and Workforce

Proposed budget reductions and departmental closures could jeopardize NASA's scientific endeavors and global leadership in space exploration.

NASA has begun layoffs and closed key offices, including the Office of Technology, Policy, and Strategy, and the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility branch, affecting 23 employees.
The closures include the elimination of the chief scientist role, previously held by climate expert Katherine Calvin, sparking concerns about the agency's ability to address climate and policy challenges.
Rumors suggest President Donald Trump may propose a 50% cut to NASA's science budget, potentially threatening missions like the Hubble Telescope, Mars rovers, and climate satellites.
Experts warn that such reductions could permanently damage NASA's capacity for scientific innovation and exploration, describing the potential impact as an 'extinction-level event.'
Critics argue the cuts could weaken U.S. global leadership in space science, providing opportunities for competitors like China to advance in space exploration.