NASA Limits Work to Essential Tasks During US Government Shutdown

Washington: NASA has reduced most of its operations following a lapse in United States government funding. Under federal law, the agency is not permitted to spend money without authorisation from Congress. During such periods, only activities deemed essential to safety and security continue, while the majority of projects are paused.

A limited number of staff remain on duty to oversee the International Space Station and maintain spacecraft currently active across the solar system. All other work, including scientific research, educational outreach, and preparation for upcoming missions, is suspended until funding is restored.

The freeze affects programmes such as Artemis, the mission to return astronauts to the Moon, as well as university research projects dependent on NASA grants. International collaborations and contracts with private companies also face disruption.

This is not the first time the agency has been forced to scale back operations. Shutdowns in 2013, 2018, and 2019 led to the furlough of most staff, with research and mission development delayed. Federal law also prevents employees from continuing their work voluntarily during these periods.

While essential monitoring ensures the safety of astronauts and spacecraft, the halt slows long-term mission planning and scientific progress. The episode highlights how political impasses in Washington directly affect America’s space programme and its global partners.