NASA Cuts Key Science and Diversity Offices as Workforce Restructuring Begins

The closures, part of Trump administration directives, include the Office of the Chief Scientist and affect 23 employees.

NASA has announced the closure of three departments: the Office of the Chief Scientist, the Office of Technology, Policy, and Strategy, and the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility branch.
The decision aligns with executive orders from President Trump aimed at reducing federal workforce and restructuring agencies for efficiency.
Acting Administrator Janet Petro described the layoffs as the first step in a broader 'reduction in force' plan, affecting 23 employees initially.
The closures have raised concerns about the future of NASA's scientific initiatives, including climate-related research and strategic policy guidance.
The restructuring comes as Jared Isaacman, Trump's nominee for NASA Administrator, awaits confirmation, with broader workforce reductions anticipated in the near future.