NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), located just north of Los Angeles, will resume normal operations next week after being closed due to the raging Eaton Fire. The fire has devastated neighboring communities and forced the evacuation of nearly 1,000 people.
The lab, which is NASA’s lead facility for planetary exploration, was previously only accessible for essential activities such as operating Mars rovers and other missions. However, with the fire no longer a danger, JPL plans to reopen its doors from January 21-24, 2025.
While the fire did not directly affect the lab itself, many of its employees lost their homes, according to JPL Director Laurie Leshin. The director expressed devastation in his community and encouraged support for disaster relief efforts.
The Eaton Fire has burned over 14,000 acres but is now 65% contained. Other major fires in the area, including the Palisades Fire, are still burning out of control.
JPL is one of NASA’s key science and climate centers, hosting thousands of employees and researchers. The lab is now planning to complete a full cleanup before resuming normal operations.
Source: https://www.space.com/space-exploration/nasas-jet-propulsion-lab-to-open-next-week-after-la-fires