NASA's Strategic Shakeup: Offices Closed Amid Cost-Cutting Efforts

NASA eliminates its chief scientist role and closes several offices, including policy, diversity, and inclusion. The move, affecting 23 employees, aligns with the Trump government’s cost-cutting initiative supported by Elon Musk. Concerns rise among NASA's 18,000 employees as the reorganization continues impacting space policy and technology sectors.

In a significant organizational shift, NASA is removing the position of chief scientist and closing down offices dedicated to space and technology policy, impacting around 23 employees, the agency announced on Monday.

Acting administrator Janet Petro informed staff via email about the shutdown of the Office of the Chief Scientist, the Office of Science, Policy, and Strategy, and the diversity branch within the Office of Diversity and Equal Opportunity. These moves are part of a broader government effort under President Donald Trump's cost-cutting initiative, confirmed by a NASA spokesperson.

This restructuring notably impacts NASA's current chief scientist, Katherine Calvin, and chief technologist A.C. Charania. It has raised concerns among its 18,000 employees amidst ongoing federal downsizing led by Elon Musk and the Department of Government Efficiency. Musk's SpaceX maintains lucrative contracts with NASA, highlighting the intertwined nature of public and private space ventures.

(With inputs from agencies.)