What's Happening?
NASA has issued a waiver allowing grantees attending the 57th Lunar and Planetary Science Conference (LPSC) in March 2026 to be reimbursed for lodging costs exceeding the General Services Administration
(GSA) approved amount. The waiver permits reimbursement up to $276 per night, compared to the GSA's $128 limit for The Woodlands, Texas, where the conference will be held. This decision aims to accommodate the higher lodging costs at the conference venue, The Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel and Convention Center. The waiver applies to NASA grants and cooperative agreements, with potential applicability to NASA contracts.
Why It's Important?
The waiver is significant as it ensures that NASA grantees can attend the LPSC 2026 without financial strain due to lodging costs. Conferences like LPSC are crucial for scientific collaboration and the dissemination of research findings in the fields of lunar and planetary science. By facilitating attendance, NASA supports the continued advancement of scientific knowledge and innovation. The decision also highlights the challenges faced by researchers in managing travel expenses within the constraints of federal funding guidelines.
What's Next?
As the conference approaches, attendees will need to coordinate with their institutions to ensure compliance with both NASA's waiver and their own travel policies. The waiver may set a precedent for future conferences where lodging costs exceed GSA limits, prompting discussions on how to best support researchers' participation in key scientific events. The outcome of this waiver could influence future policy decisions regarding travel reimbursements for federally funded research activities.
