Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

NASA Layoffs Loom Amid Ongoing Government Shutdown

10/8/2025

28 2

Summary

Story summary

Layoffs at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) could rise as the U.S. government shutdown continues.
JPL employs about 5,500 and had 855 layoffs last year; forecasts of up to 4,000 are disputed by JPL officials and Rep. Judy Chu (D-Calif.).
The shutdown began on October 1 with no resolution; NASA's budget proposals include cuts to the Science Mission Directorate.

1 of 1

Story summary

Layoffs at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) could rise as the U.S. government shutdown continues.
JPL employs about 5,500 and had 855 layoffs last year; forecasts of up to 4,000 are disputed by JPL officials and Rep. Judy Chu (D-Calif.).
The shutdown began on October 1 with no resolution; NASA's budget proposals include cuts to the Science Mission Directorate.