NASA has paused several science committee activities due to recent Trump administration executive orders.

Memos sent on Jan. 31 directed astrophysics and planetary science groups to halt meetings while ensuring compliance with the orders.

The executive orders primarily target diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs and revoke climate change-related policies.

The Mercury Exploration Assessment Group (MExAG) was the first affected, canceling its Feb. 4-6 meeting, disappointing organizers and international attendees.

Other groups, including the Outer Planets Assessment Group (OPAG) and the Mars Exploration Program Analysis Group (MEPAG), have also put meetings on hold.

The pause has caused confusion among researchers as NASA implements new policies, including funding restrictions on DEI initiatives like the H2O outreach program, Space News has reported.

Changes to NASA’s website have also been noted, including the removal of an article on NASA’s 1978 astronaut class, which highlighted diversity milestones.

Written by B.C. Begley