Context:

NASA is facing significant internal turmoil, highlighted by a critical letter from nearly 300 employees and the resignation of a key director, amid budget cuts and organizational criticism. President Trump has appointed an interim administrator following a rescinded nomination, while some scientists criticize efforts to dismantle a top climate lab. The International Monetary Fund is set to release its global economic outlook update, reflecting reduced growth forecasts. The Federal Reserve plans to maintain interest rates, a decision likely to draw criticism from President Trump, who has been pressing for rate cuts. Additionally, President Trump's reciprocal tariffs are scheduled to take effect, potentially increasing costs for a range of goods in the US.

Dive Deeper:

• NASA is experiencing substantial upheaval with looming job losses and internal criticism regarding budget cuts, grant cancellations, and a culture of silence, leading to the resignation of the Goddard Space Flight Center director.

• President Trump has appointed Sean Duffy as interim NASA administrator after Jared Isaacman's nomination was withdrawn, amidst criticism from scientists about attempts to dismantle the NASA Goddard Institute for Space Studies.

• The International Monetary Fund's upcoming release of its World Economic Outlook Update is expected to show a downward revision in global growth projections due to unprecedented tariff levels.

• Federal Reserve's decision to hold interest rates steady is anticipated to provoke President Trump's ire, as he has been advocating for rate cuts and has clashed with Fed Chair Powell over this issue.

• President Trump's reciprocal tariffs are poised to go into effect, which could result in increased prices for various products such as produce, electronics, and medical equipment in the United States.

• NASA astronauts Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore's prolonged mission, plagued by International Space Station leaks, underscores operational challenges faced by the agency.

• Blue Origin's space tourism mission with an all-female crew has sparked debate about the future of commercial spaceflight, highlighting both enthusiasm and criticism regarding private space endeavors.