NASA shutdown: What happens to ISS operations now?

The US government has been shut for the past six days, with both Republicans and Democrats refusing to compromise on a budget deal. According to media reports, the shutdown could last anywhere from days to several weeks. A Congressional Budget Office analysis estimates that roughly 750,000 federal workers are expected to be furloughed during this period.

Among the affected agencies is NASA, which has largely suspended operations, raising concerns over the continuity of critical space programs, including those involving the International Space Station ( ISS).

NASA’s shutdown procedures are legally mandated and not discretionary. While essential functions continue to protect astronauts and active missions, the broader freeze on activity reinforces the vulnerability of major scientific institutions to funding uncertainties and prolonged political gridlock as per a report by TOI.


Core staff continue ISS oversight

With over 15,000 NASA employees furloughed, only a core group of “excepted” personnel remains on duty. These individuals are tasked with maintaining the safety of astronauts aboard the ISS and ensuring that critical systems and international coordination efforts continue uninterrupted.

NASA's official contingency plan mandates that day-to-day operations and scientific work are suspended until Congress approves new funding. However, exceptions are made for missions where disruption could endanger human life, safety, or high-value property. This includes 24/7 monitoring and management of the ISS.


Astronaut safety maintained, but public updates halted

NASA has not issued updates on its social media channels or official blog since September 30, the day before the shutdown began. There has been no official word on the status of research or the well-being of astronauts currently aboard the ISS.

Despite the communications freeze, critical operations continue. Mission control in Houston remains staffed by essential personnel to manage station activities, coordinate with global partners, and respond to emergencies. These staff members will not receive pay until funding is restored but are considered exempt due to their vital role in ensuring astronaut safety.


International partners continue to support ISS operations

The ISS is operated as part of a long-standing partnership involving NASA, Russia’s Roscosmos, the European Space Agency (ESA), Japan’s JAXA, and the Canadian Space Agency (CSA). These partnerships, along with automated spacecraft systems, help ensure ongoing functionality during the shutdown.


Non-essential NASA functions paused

All non-essential NASA activities have been halted. This includes educational outreach, most scientific research, development of new missions, and public communication. Broader initiatives, such as the Artemis moon program and Mars exploration plans, are also on hold.

Until the US government resolves the budget impasse, NASA’s core personnel will continue to ensure the safety and stability of the ISS. The remainder of the agency, however, remains on standby—its future plans delayed by the political stalemate in Washington.


Lessons from the past

NASA has faced similar challenges in the past. During government shutdowns in 2013, 2018, and 2019, most staff were furloughed, and work on research, education, and mission development was paused. Legal restrictions prevent scientists and engineers from continuing their duties—even voluntarily—leading to backlogs, delayed timelines, and postponed launches.

Such shutdowns impact not only NASA’s internal operations but also its collaborations with international agencies, universities, and private contractors. While emergency protocols ensure that critical systems like the ISS remain monitored, the suspension of science and outreach slows overall progress and disrupts long-term planning.

These past experiences underscore how political deadlocks in Washington can ripple through the US space programme and hinder global scientific cooperation. They also highlight the need for consistent and stable funding to maintain momentum in space exploration and research.