NASA has announced the dismissal of its chief scientist, Katherine Calvin, along with other key personnel, as part of a restructuring effort mandated by the Trump administration.
The announcement was made on Tuesday, March 11, 2025, and marks a significant shift in the agency’s focus.
Key Details:
- Affected Offices: The restructuring includes the elimination of the Office of the Chief Scientist, the Office of Technology, Policy, and Strategy, and the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility Branch.
- Reason for Dismissals: NASA stated that the dismissals are part of a phased reduction in force (RIF) to optimize its workforce, in compliance with an executive order issued by President Trump.
- Impact on Climate Research: Katherine Calvin, a renowned climatologist who contributed to key UN climate reports, was among those dismissed. This move has raised concerns about the future of climate-related research within NASA.
- Future Focus: The restructuring aligns with the administration’s emphasis on space exploration, including human missions to Mars, while deprioritizing Earth science and climate research.
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