More than 2,100 senior-level employees at NASA are set to leave the agency as part of a staff reduction process, according to a report by Politico. The news comes as the U.S. space agency faces tighter financial conditions and leadership uncertainty.

The employees expected to leave are mostly in GS-13 to GS-15 positions, among the higher ranks in the U.S. federal government pay scale. These roles typically involve years of experience and leadership responsibilities.

As per documents reviewed by Politico, NASA is encouraging departures through a combination of early retirement offers, buyouts, and deferred resignations.

Despite the large-scale exits, NASA insists its mission remains on track.

"NASA remains committed to our mission as we work within a more prioritized budget," agency spokesperson Bethany Stevens said in an emailed statement to Reuters.

The recent wave of departures follows budget tightening under President Donald Trump's administration. In recent months, the 18,000-strong NASA workforce has faced threats of layoffs and the possible cancellation of several science programs.

Adding to the turmoil, NASA currently does not have a confirmed administrator to lead the agency through this transition.

Tensions around the space agency’s leadership also intensified last month when the White House unexpectedly withdrew Jared Isaacman as its nominee for NASA administrator. Isaacman—a billionaire private astronaut and a close ally of Elon Musk—had been considered a leading candidate for the role.

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