NASA has announced a significant restructuring effort that includes the dismissal of its chief scientist and other key personnel, aligning with directives from President Donald Trump’s administration. This move, which follows a broader trend of cuts to climate change research and science-focused programs, marks a significant shift in the agency’s operations. While the initial layoffs affect only 23 individuals, NASA has indicated that additional workforce reductions are expected in the near future.
Among the most notable terminations is that of Katherine Calvin, a highly respected climatologist who led NASA’s Office of the Chief Scientist. Calvin played a crucial role in contributing to United Nations climate reports and was instrumental in NASA’s climate research initiatives. Additionally, she and other U.S. delegates were recently barred from attending an international climate science conference in China. The elimination of her position, along with other key offices, raises concerns about the future of climate-related research within NASA.
NASA’s decision comes amid a broader push by the Trump administration to reduce federal spending on climate science, a stance that has already led to significant staff cuts at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and other agencies involved in environmental research.
NASA begins layoff, shuts down key offices under White House order
NASA spokeswoman Cheryl Warner confirmed that the dismissals are part of a phased approach to a reduction in force (RIF) mandated by an Executive Order from the White House.
“To optimize our workforce, and in compliance with an Executive Order, NASA is beginning its phased approach to a reduction in force,” Warner stated. “A small number of individuals received notification on March 10 that they are a part of NASA’s RIF. If they’re eligible, those employees may opt to participate in the Voluntary Early Retirement Authority (VERA) or complete the RIF process.”
This round of layoffs includes the elimination of three key offices within NASA:
- The Office of the Chief Scientist – Previously led by Katherine Calvin, this office played a central role in guiding NASA’s climate research and scientific priorities.
- The Office of Technology, Policy, and Strategy – Focused on long-term planning and technological advancements in space exploration and scientific research.
- The Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility Branch of the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion – A department dedicated to promoting inclusivity within NASA’s workforce.
Political influence and NASA’s budget cuts
Despite its pivotal role in climate research, NASA has largely avoided the severe budget reductions affecting other federal agencies. Reports suggest this may be due to last-minute intervention by Jared Isaacman, the Trump administration’s nominee for NASA chief. Isaacman, a billionaire entrepreneur with close ties to SpaceX and Elon Musk, is believed to have played a role in delaying previously planned layoffs.
In February, NASA had been preparing to lay off nearly 1,000 probationary employees. However, according to a report from Ars Technica, Isaacman requested that the cuts be put on hold. While NASA has not publicly explained the reversal, it appears that some budget reductions have now resumed, albeit on a smaller scale.
Shift in NASA’s priorities: Exploration over climate research
The latest layoffs could indicate a shift in NASA’s focus from Earth science research toward deep space exploration. Both President Trump and Elon Musk have expressed strong support for human missions to Mars, with Trump making an explicit commitment in his recent State of the Union address.
“We will plant the American flag on the planet Mars and even far beyond,” Trump stated during his speech.
This vision aligns with Musk’s long-term goal of colonizing Mars, a project that SpaceX has been actively developing. While NASA’s continued involvement in climate research remains uncertain, the recent cuts suggest a reallocation of resources toward space exploration initiatives.
Impact on climate research and global scientific efforts
NASA has long been a leader in climate science, operating a fleet of Earth-monitoring satellites, conducting airborne and ground-based studies, and developing sophisticated climate models. Its data has been widely used by scientists, policymakers, and environmental organizations worldwide. The dismissal of key personnel and the elimination of climate-focused offices could have long-term consequences for global climate research efforts.
The Trump administration has already taken steps to distance the U.S. from international climate agreements, withdrawing from the Paris Agreement for a second time. Additionally, NOAA, another key federal agency involved in climate science, has faced mass layoffs, with further cuts anticipated.
