NASA furloughs over 15,000 employees as US government shutdown begins

The US space agency has suspended most of its operations, forcing the majority of its workforce into unpaid leave amid the federal government shutdown.

Out of NASA’s 18,218 staff members, 15,094 have been temporarily furloughed, Caliber.Az reports via NASA.

The agency noted that 2,830 employees remain to ensure “protection of life and property,” 164 continue in “legally required roles,” and another 130 are funded through alternative sources.

NASA added that operations will continue only in three areas: the International Space Station, maintenance of active satellites, and the Artemis program.

Government shutdowns in the United States occur when Congress fails to pass a budget or temporary funding bill, leading to the suspension of many federal operations.

NASA, like other agencies, has historically been heavily affected, with most employees placed on unpaid leave during past shutdowns.

While essential functions—such as maintaining the International Space Station and protecting critical assets—continue, broader scientific research, grant programs, and administrative work typically come to a halt.

By Khagan Isayev