Nasa fires chief scientist, more Trump cuts to come

WASHINGTON: Nasa announced on Wednesday the dismissal of its chief scientist and others to comply with orders from President Donald Trump, marking the latest in a series of administration actions undermining climate change research.

While the move affects only 23 people, a spokeswoman indicated more cuts are coming.

The first round notably eliminates the Office of the Chief Scientist, led by Katherine Calvin, a renowned climatologist who contributed to key UN climate reports. She and other US delegates were also barred from attending a major climate science meeting in China last month.

“To optimize our workforce, and in compliance with an Executive Order, Nasa is beginning its phased approach to a reduction in force, known as a RIF,” agency spokeswoman Cheryl Warner said.

“A small number of individuals received notification March 10 they are a part of Nasa´s RIF. If they´re eligible, those employees may opt to participate in the Voluntary Early Retirement Authority, or VERA, or complete the RIF process.”

Also eliminated are the Office of Technology, Policy, and Strategy and the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility Branch of the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.

Nasa has so far avoided the deep cuts affecting other agencies, reportedly due to last minute intervention by Jared Isaacman, Trump´s nominee for Nasa chief. Isaacman, an e-payments billionaire and SpaceX customer, is seen as close to Elon Musk -- Trump´s key adviser and architect of federal cost-cutting efforts.

In February, Nasa had been preparing to lay off around a thousand probationary employees. However, Isaacman reportedly asked for the cuts to be put on hold, according to Ars Technica. Nasa has not explained the reversal.