NASA reopens after 43-day shutdown, scientists scramble to restart missions
16 Nov 2025

NASA has resumed full operations after a record-breaking 43-day government shutdown.

The closure had forced nearly all of the agency's staff to stay home, bringing most missions and scientific work to a standstill.

Now, with teams back at their desks, IT support is working hard to get systems up and running smoothly again.

Core teams ensured safety during shutdown
Mission continuity

Despite the shutdown, NASA's core teams worked tirelessly to ensure the safety of the International Space Station and satellites.

No major incidents were reported in space during this period.

However, some major projects such as Artemis moon missions will require system checks before they can resume their work.

Employees to receive pay for lost time
Compensation assurance

Good news for employees is that they will be compensated for the time lost during the shutdown.

NASA leaders have stressed on the importance of stable funding in keeping future missions, and consequently paychecks, on track.

This comes as a relief after a long period of uncertainty and disruption caused by the government shutdown.