NASA replaces artificial intelligence references with super intelligence following an executive order from President Donald Trump.

NASA has begun replacing references to artificial intelligence with "super intelligence" following an executive order signed by President Donald Trump on Sept. 29. The directive instructs federal agencies to substitute "artificial intelligence" and "AI" with "super intelligence" and "SI" in all official communications. An internal NASA document outlines a four-phase implementation schedule running from Oct.

9 through Dec. 23 to update websites, digital infrastructure, and organizational titles. The changes apply to both public materials and internal employee communications. Specific technical citations like "machine learning" remain acceptable, but staff are directed not to use transitional phrases acknowledging the previous terminology. Agency leadership has pushed for rapid adoption, with NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman reportedly urging staff to act quickly.

While the underlying technologies remain unchanged, some NASA employees have expressed concern that the terminology shift could create confusion for the public and the scientific community. Phase one included renaming titles such as Kevin Murphy's role to acting chief data and super intelligence officer. Later phases will update high-traffic websites and software integrations, including a planned technical update described as a breaking change for existing APIs.

Guidance for peer-reviewed scientific publications is still forthcoming.