Story perspectives

NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory Cuts 550 Jobs Amid Reorganization

10/15/2025

Summary

Story summary

NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory announced on October 14, 2024, it will lay off about 550 employees, roughly 11% of its workforce.
The cuts follow two prior rounds in 2024, totaling more than 850 layoffs.
JPL Director Dave Gallagher said the layoffs stem from a July-initiated reorganization and are not connected to the government shutdown.
Rep. Judy Chu expressed disappointment over the impact on innovation and scientific leadership in space exploration.

History

Historical Context

In 2013, NASA faced a $1.5 billion budget cut, leading to workforce reductions at centers like the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL). This echoed past struggles, such as the 1991 A-12 Avenger II program cancellation, which resulted in 5,600 layoffs. Today, JPL's layoffs highlight ongoing funding challenges, threatening U.S. leadership in space exploration and technological advancements.

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Story summary

NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory announced on October 14, 2024, it will lay off about 550 employees, roughly 11% of its workforce.
The cuts follow two prior rounds in 2024, totaling more than 850 layoffs.
JPL Director Dave Gallagher said the layoffs stem from a July-initiated reorganization and are not connected to the government shutdown.
Rep. Judy Chu expressed disappointment over the impact on innovation and scientific leadership in space exploration.

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