Stennis Space Center is open for mission essential activities with limited access
Though there has been no confirmed case of coronavirus (COVID-19) at Stennis, the Center has decided to move forward with Stage 3 designation of the NASA COVID-19 response framework. This decision was based on an increased community spread with more than 100 confirmed cases in our region, and a growing list of SSC potential cases and exposures that we are currently monitoring. While the Center remains open during Stage 3, onsite activity is limited to mission essential work. Personnel shall refer to their specific Agency and/or Company Guidelines and Policy for determination of mission essential activities and access to the site.
Stage 3 makes telework mandatory for all NASA personnel, except for mission essential activities that must take place onsite, in an effort to minimize potential transmission within the workplace environment. The overall success of this effort extends beyond NASA’s curtailing of Agency activities at SSC, we are requesting all organizations in the SSC workplace community to limit, to the maximum extent practical, the employees that must report to SSC for mission essential work.
Additionally, Stage 3 impacts to SSC will include the cafeteria moving to take-out service only, as seating areas in the cafeteria and Atrium will be closed. Other food and retail options sponsored by the Exchange may also be affected. Common conference and meeting spaces in B-1100 will also be closed as all meetings are to be conducted virtually with remote participation only.
The Stage 3 framework also includes a recommendation to close all onsite childcare centers. SSC is currently evaluating this step with our Navy partner that operates the Stennis Child Development Center, and will issue further guidance on the status of the facility soon.
The status of the center will be updated regularly and communicated to all at Stennis. The Center Director, Center leadership team, and Agency leaders greatly appreciate your understanding, patience, and support through this challenging period of time.