NASA Considers Shutting Down Headquarters, Scattering Operations Across US

NASA is considering shutting down its Washington, D.C., headquarters and redistributing its key functions across various states, a move that could significantly alter the space agency’s structure and influence in the capital.

The proposal, which aligns with the Trump administration’s push to reduce federal spending, could impact up to 2,500 jobs and shift oversight of major space missions and scientific projects away from Washington, according to a report from Politico. 

While NASA's 10 centers already handle much of the agency’s day-to-day operations, its headquarters plays a crucial role in securing congressional funding, maintaining White House support, and coordinating international partnerships.

Some offices could remain in Washington, but it is unclear which ones or how many employees would be affected.

Concerns over coordination and diplomacy

Former NASA officials warn that dispersing the agency's leadership could disrupt communication and weaken U.S. space diplomacy efforts.

“The minute I go and take that communication center and move it to a [NASA] center, I have now made that communication harder and longer,” said Dan Dumbacher, a former senior NASA official who served under Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama.

NASA frequently collaborates with foreign space agencies on projects like the International Space Station and the Artemis program, which aims to return astronauts to the moon. Many of these partnerships are facilitated through embassies in Washington, making their future uncertain if headquarters is dismantled.

Potential benefits and political battles

Despite concerns, some argue that moving headquarters functions closer to NASA centers could improve efficiency and allow legislative staff to interact with lawmakers in their home districts.

States with strong space industry ties, including Texas and Florida, have been vying to host NASA’s leadership. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has backed a proposal to relocate headquarters to his state, claiming it would save the agency “about a billion dollars.”

Meanwhile, Ohio politicians have also pushed for NASA’s leadership to move to Cleveland.

The decision remains in early discussions, but if approved, it would mark one of the most significant structural changes in NASA’s history—potentially reshaping how America leads in space exploration.