NASA, NSF Cut 10% Workforce Amid Federal Downsizing

NASA and the National Science Foundation (NSF) have recently cut approximately 10% of their workforce, a move that has raised concerns about the future of U.S. scientific leadership amid intensifying global competition. The layoffs primarily impacted new hires, recent promotions, and probationary employees, including nearly 1,000 at NASA and 168 at NSF. The situation reflects a broader trend of mass layoffs across federal agencies under the Trump administration, with over 10,000 employees terminated across various departments. These reductions have prompted fears that essential expertise and innovative spirit will be lost, hampering critical projects and initiatives. Additionally, the administration's directive to eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion programs at NASA has created a climate of uncertainty and fear among staff, who feel their values and contributions are being undermined. The American Federation of Government Employees has condemned the layoffs as politically motivated rather than performance-driven.