Budget Manipulations

The biggest problem facing the U. S. Government today likely is getting control of spending. That likely demands at least some cuts. A government shutdown beginning Friday is still possible, but there seems to be a deal in the works to push that deadline back two weeks.

That two weeks, if all goes well, will get the government beyond the current shuttle mission, but the essential work of government would go on even during a shutdown. Supporting a manned mission already underway, like ISS, would qualify as essential work, but supporting unmanned missions and continuing research projects may not.

So, a government shutdown could have serious implications not only for NASA and its workforce, but for science, as well. Ideally, the politicians in charge will find a way through the thicket that avoids an interruption.