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NASA's JPL Cuts 10% Workforce Amid Funding Crisis

10/20/2025

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Summary

Story summary

NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) laid off more than 10% of its workforce amid funding pressures.
JPL has faced funding cuts, notably for the Mars Sample Return mission.
Internal management issues and rising mission costs have further complicated the lab's situation.
As JPL shifts to defense projects, experts worry about its planetary science missions.
Some employees remain hopeful for JPL's recovery despite ongoing government shutdowns and 2026 budget uncertainty.

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Story summary

NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) laid off more than 10% of its workforce amid funding pressures.
JPL has faced funding cuts, notably for the Mars Sample Return mission.
Internal management issues and rising mission costs have further complicated the lab's situation.
As JPL shifts to defense projects, experts worry about its planetary science missions.
Some employees remain hopeful for JPL's recovery despite ongoing government shutdowns and 2026 budget uncertainty.