With Jared Isaacman Out, Is NASA in Deeper Trouble?

In a surprise move, President Donald Trump withdrew his nomination of Jared Isaacman to lead NASA. The private astronaut’s prospective role as NASA administrator was seen by the space community as a welcomed change to the agency during a critical time, with looming budget cuts and several of its missions on the chopping block. With Isaacman out, it could signal dark times for NASA. The White House announced the decision on Saturday, stating that “it’s essential that the next leader of NASA is in complete alignment with President Trump’s America First agenda,” spokesperson Liz Huston is quoted in Space Insider as saying. Isaacman’s nomination for NASA administrator was approved by a Senate committee in late April and was headed to a confirmation vote this week. Trump’s withdrawal of Isaacman’s nomination comes at a time of uncertainty regarding the administration’s stance on NASA’s ongoing programs, including its long-anticipated return to the Moon. It also squashes hope of Isaacman le ... Read full article.