NASA Restructures Planetary Science Analysis Groups for Future

On January 16, 2026, NASA announced significant changes regarding the future of its Planetary Science Analysis and Assessment Groups (AGs). In a letter from Louise M. Prockter, the Director of the Planetary Science Division (PSD), the agency outlined a new direction for these community-organized groups, which have provided valuable feedback to NASA while operating outside the formal structure of federal advisory committees.

Changes in Support and Operations

Prockter, who assumed her role in April 2025, emphasized the importance of the AGs in enhancing collaboration and consensus within the planetary science community. The AGs have served as interdisciplinary bodies that contribute crucial insights for planning and prioritizing NASA’s planetary exploration activities. However, recent shifts in the operational landscape, including executive orders and changes in grant administration, have rendered the current model of support unfeasible.

Historically, the AGs operated under NASA-endorsed Terms of Reference, receiving financial backing for various activities such as meeting logistics and community travel awards through a grant to the Lunar and Planetary Institute. Prockter indicated that due to a constrained budget and the elimination of the Planetary Science Advisory Committee, the PSD can no longer formally support these groups. The existing grant mechanism for AG activities will end by April 2026. Despite this, Prockter assured the community that some funding will still be allocated for specific high-value activities.

Looking Ahead: Opportunities for Evolution

While the AGs are not being dissolved, the future of these groups will require adaptation and innovation. Prockter noted that the AGs have the potential to evolve into self-organized entities capable of continuing their contributions to planetary exploration. She expressed confidence in the community’s resilience and creativity to navigate these changes.

The final NASA-supported AG meetings are scheduled to conclude by the end of April 2026. Prockter plans to maintain open communication with the community through emails and virtual meetings, ensuring that opportunities for dialogue remain available as the transition unfolds. She acknowledged the contributions of the AG Chairs and Steering Committees, as well as the logistical support from the Lunar and Planetary Institute, as instrumental in shaping the future direction of the AGs.

As NASA prepares to embark on this new chapter, the Agency remains committed to fostering an agile and inclusive environment for planetary science that aligns with its exploration priorities. Prockter concluded her letter with a positive outlook for the year ahead, inviting continued engagement and collaboration within the community.