A federal judge has issued a ruling preventing the Trump administration from transferring control of the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) in Colorado to the University of Wyoming. This decision supports the University Corporation for Atmospheric Research (UCAR), which operates the facility and argued that the transfer would harm its operations and lead to a loss of specialized personnel.
The case arose after Office of Management and Budget Director Russell Vought announced plans to dismantle NCAR, labeling it a source of 'climate alarmism.' The National Science Foundation was directed to transfer stewardship of the supercomputing center, which is crucial for climate and atmospheric research.
U.S. District Judge R. Brooke Jackson granted a preliminary injunction, stating that the transfer posed an immediate threat to the center's operations and could result in significant 'brain drain.' He criticized the NSF for failing to provide an explanation for its decision and not considering public feedback.
Judge Jackson noted the supercomputer's importance in forecasting severe weather and supporting scientific research, emphasizing that any degradation in its capabilities could have serious consequences for public safety and national security. UCAR welcomed the ruling, highlighting the center's role in various critical services, including agriculture, military operations, and aviation safety. The lawsuit also claimed that the administration's actions were politically motivated, suggesting retaliation against Colorado for its stance on election administration issues.
