NASA Fellowship Activity has shaped the careers of more than 4,000 researchers, professors, and entrepreneurs from underrepresented backgrounds. These internships play a vital role in advancing space exploration and research.
Utah State University and the University of Southern California stand out with their dedicated programs in space weather studies. The NASA Heliophysics Summer School and International Space Weather Camp give students practical experience in space physics.
The NASA Postdoctoral Program and National Space Grant College fellowships are great opportunities to start your space weather career. This detailed guide covers 15 space weather internship opportunities for 2025. You’ll discover everything from application requirements to program benefits that will help launch your career in this field.
NASA Space Weather Internship Overview
NASA’s space weather research aims to understand and predict solar activities that affect Earth’s environment and technological systems. The Space Weather Program studies physical processes and their effects to enable better predictions and applications.
What is Space Weather Research
The Sun’s activity produces various conditions throughout the solar system, which we call space weather. A continuous stream of charged particles known as solar wind rushes through space at speeds reaching one million miles per hour. These particles and radiation can disrupt satellites, communication systems, and trigger electrical blackouts on Earth.
Types of NASA Space Weather Projects
NASA provides space weather research opportunities through several specialized programs:
- Space Weather Operations: Students collaborate with scientists at NASA/GSFC Space Weather Center to analyze and predict space weather events. The program begins with two weeks of intensive training, after which interns perform forecaster duties.
- Space Weather Research: The projects focus on solar eruptions, geomagnetic storms, and their effects on Earth’s systems. Students work on theoretical modeling and analyze data from NASA’s scientific observatories.
- Software Development: These projects support the Community Coordinated Modeling Center (CCMC) and Space Weather Research Center (SWRC). Strong programming skills are essential for these roles.
2025 Program Timeline
NASA has announced these important dates for summer 2025:
- Early Application Deadline: October 25, 2024
- Final Application Deadline: February 28, 2025
- Program Duration: June 2 to August 8, 2025
NASA’s partnership with the Earth Science DEVELOP National Program has launched two feasibility studies on space weather applications at the NASA Langley Research Center. These 10-week research programs help participants use NASA’s heliophysics and Earth observations to address community concerns about space weather.
The Space Weather Laboratory conducts ongoing research through space-based, ground-based, theoretical, and modeling studies. The laboratory’s staff leads space environment projects and missions while serving as project scientists for NASA flight missions with space weather applications.
NASA Pathways Internship Program
The NASA Pathways Internship Program is unique because it’s the only internship that offers a direct path to full-time employment at NASA after graduation. Students get ready for space careers through real projects and mentorship that spans multiple semesters.
Program Description
You’ll switch between NASA work assignments and your regular school schedule in this cooperative education model. Pathways interns become part of engineering or business teams and tackle meaningful projects. The program gives you independence with the right amount of guidance, which creates many chances for you to succeed.
Eligibility Requirements
The program needs you to:
- Keep a GPA of at least 2.9 on a 4.0 scale
- Complete 480 hours of work before you graduate
- Be enrolled or accepted as at least a half-time student at an accredited school
- Have U.S. citizenship and be 16 or older
- Sign a Pathways Agreement and pass a background check
Application Process
NASA opens applications twice a year, usually in February and September. Here’s how to apply:
- Set up your USAJobs.gov profile
- Create a detailed resume using the Challenge/Action/Result (CAR) format
- Upload required documents with your transcripts
- Pick your preferred NASA centers
- Take the online assessment
Stipend and Benefits
You’ll get competitive pay and benefits just like permanent employees. These include:
- Pay every two weeks based on your GS level
- Health, dental, and vision coverage
- Federal retirement plan
- Federal holidays off
- Annual and sick leave
- Ways to grow professionally
NASA brings in about 650 Pathways interns each year, with spots available at several centers. The program keeps a 70/30 split between STEM and non-STEM majors, creating career paths in both space exploration and research.
After you complete the program successfully, you can move into a full-time role within 180 days of graduating. This transition depends on your grades, completed work hours, and positive feedback from your supervisors.
NASA Summer Internship Program
The Office of STEM Engagement (OSTEM) helps you get paid internships where students can directly contribute to NASA’s groundbreaking missions. Students gain hands-on experience and work with research scientists and engineers at NASA facilities of all sizes.
Program Structure
Students partner with NASA scientists or engineers through a mentorship-based model during summer internships. The interns work on specific projects that support NASA missions while they take part in enrichment activities, tour facilities, and attend career development sessions.
Research Areas
Summer interns can participate in various research projects:
- Space weather forecasting and analysis at the GSFC Space Weather Center
- Solar system exploration at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory
- Heliophysics research at multiple NASA centers
- Earth science observations and data analysis
Students work in groups to perform space weather forecaster duties after completing two weeks of intensive training in space weather science and operational procedures. Students become certified entry-level space weather analysts upon successful completion.
Duration and Timeline
Summer 2025 important dates include:
- Program Duration: June 2 – August 8, 2025
- Application Deadline: March 14, 2025
- Session Length: 10 weeks, full-time (40 hours/week)
Compensation Package
Students receive stipends based on their academic level:
- Undergraduate Students: $7,300 for 10 weeks
- Graduate Students: $9,000 for 10 weeks
Students get additional housing and travel allowances when their institutions are more than 50 miles from their assigned NASA center. In spite of that, students must find their own housing.
The program focuses on practical experience rather than theoretical knowledge. Students at facilities like the Goddard Space Flight Center work in a relaxed yet professional environment. They set their own deadlines and usually work 30 hours per week. This setup lets interns learn and contribute to NASA’s missions without feeling overwhelmed.
NASA International Internship Program
NASA’s International Internship Program (NASA I²) helps students worldwide learn about multicultural space missions. The program shapes future scientists and engineers to work together on global space exploration projects.
Eligibility for International Students
Students must meet these requirements to join NASA I²:
- Current enrollment in an undergraduate or graduate STEM program that lines up with NASA’s mission priorities
- Strong academic performance
- Clear interest in U.S. space programs
- Strong English communication skills
- Citizenship in a country with an active NASA partnership agreement
Students enrolled in the International Space University’s Master of Space Studies or Master of Space Management programs get special attention for 3-6 month projects at selected NASA centers.
Available Positions
NASA I² runs three sessions each year – spring, summer, and fall. Research opportunities include:
- Space station collaboration projects
- Climate monitoring initiatives
- Data science applications
- Aerospace engineering research
- Software development for space missions
Each intern teams up with experienced mentors on technical projects that match their skills and background. The program values diversity and welcomes qualified candidates from all partner countries.
Visa Requirements
Selected international interns need to:
- Get a J-1 visa for their internship period
- Work full-time (about 40 hours per week)
- Submit required documents through their country’s partner agency
- Pass background checks
The journey begins when you contact your country’s NASA I² partner agency. These organizations, usually national space agencies or education ministries, handle nominations through international reimbursable Space Act Agreements.
Summer 2025 position deadlines match domestic programs – February 28, 2025 for summer session and May 16, 2025 for fall placements. Partner agencies screen candidates first to ensure they meet NASA’s technical requirements and have relevant STEM backgrounds.
Heliophysics Summer School
NASA’s Living With a Star program and UCAR/CPAESS have shaped future space scientists through their prestigious Heliophysics Summer School program since 2007. This unique educational initiative in Boulder, Colorado explores deeply into the physics of space weather events that originate from the Sun.
Program Overview
The 2025 Heliophysics Summer School scheduled for August 11-20 connects fundamental physical processes across the heliosphere with observational methods. Expert lectures combine with interactive laboratories and professional development opportunities to create an enriching experience. UCAR Cooperative Programs will select up to 25 students through a competitive process.
Research Focus Areas
The curriculum emphasizes several key areas:
- Analytical heliophysics exploration and discovery
- Solar wind progress and planetary body interactions
- Ground and space-based remote sensing techniques
- Emerging data analysis approaches using AI and machine learning
Students learn about universal processes in heliophysics that include dynamos, plasma flows, magnetic reconnection, and particle acceleration. The program uses data from past NASA missions and model results from NASA’s Community Coordinated Modeling Center.
Application Requirements
Qualified candidates must meet specific criteria:
- Be an advanced graduate student in a PhD program, or
- Hold position as 1st/2nd year postdoctoral researcher, or
- Be an early career researcher within two years of obtaining doctorate
- Study space physics, planetary science, astronomy, or engineering
- Pursue research career in heliophysics or related fields
First-time applicants receive priority consideration, though virtual attendees from previous years can apply again. Students from international and U.S. institutions are welcome to join the program. Each participant gets complete travel support, including accommodation in Boulder.
Students use the textbook “Principles of Heliophysics,” which is freely accessible online. Participants work hands-on with space weather models and conduct simulations to visualize events like coronal mass ejections throughout the program.
NASA Space Grant Fellowship
The National Space Grant College and Fellowship Project, now 34 years old, connects over 850 affiliates from universities, colleges, museums, and research centers. This nationwide network reaches across 52 consortia that cover all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico.
Program Details
Graduate students in space-related fields can find expanded opportunities through this fellowship program. NASA Space Grant Fellows get educational and training support that helps advance NASA’s current and future science objectives. The program values institutional and geographical diversity, which ensures broad participation throughout the United States.
Research Opportunities
Space Grant Fellows work on innovative projects that:
- Drive NASA’s aeronautics and space missions forward
- Advance space resource exploration and development
- Lead interdisciplinary research with industry partners
- Create measurable progress in STEM fields
Strong industry connections through cooperative projects and consortia partnerships help fellows blend practical skills with theoretical knowledge.
Financial Support
Fellowship funding for the 2024-2025 academic year includes:
- Annual stipend of $20,000 for qualified graduate students
- Award duration from September 1, 2024, through April 9, 2025
- Extra support for curriculum improvement and faculty development
Qualified applicants must:
- Hold U.S. citizenship and full-time enrollment in STEM programs
- Work under active faculty mentor supervision
- Submit applications by March 18, 2024
NASA’s Office of STEM Engagement oversees the fellowship program to build a well-trained STEM workforce. Through collaboration with The National GEM Consortium, the program has increased participation from underrepresented minorities in graduate-level STEM programs.
Students can receive support for up to four years, with possible extensions approved by the NASA Space Grant Program Director. New applicants get priority consideration, which creates continuous opportunities for fresh talent in space-related research.
STEM Engagement Undergraduate Internship
NASA’s Office of STEM Engagement (OSTEM) lets students work on groundbreaking agency projects with experienced mentors. The program helps create tomorrow’s space scientists and engineers through real-world experience.
Program Description
OSTEM internships provide research opportunities at many NASA centers and facilities. Students work with research scientists, engineers, and professionals in a variety of fields. The program runs three sessions each year:
- Spring: 16-week session from mid-January to early May
- Summer: 10-week session from late May/early June to August
- Fall: 16-week session from late August to mid-December
Project Areas
OSTEM interns work in many fields beyond engineering:
- Business and program management
- Procurement and budgeting
- Information technology
- Security operations
- Accounting systems
Students help advance NASA’s mission in science, technology, aeronautics, and space exploration. The experience strengthens their career readiness and builds professional portfolios.
Application Process
Candidates must meet these requirements [link_2]:
- Be a U.S. citizen
- Maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale
- Enroll as a full-time student (high school through graduate level)
- Be at least 16 years old at application time
- For undergraduate/graduate students: Enroll in an accredited degree program that matches NASA’s needs
The application steps include:
- Creating a profile on STEM Gateway
- Finding available projects using location and skill set filters
- Submitting required documentation
- Checking email for possible interview requests
Selected interns receive stipend awards based on their academic level and session length. NASA sends an official offer letter with project details and compensation information. Project mentors often talk with candidates through phone or video interviews before making their final choice.
NASA Student Airborne Research Program
The Student Airborne Research Program (SARP) runs an eight-week summer internship that gives senior undergraduates real-world experience in scientific campaigns with NASA’s advanced aircraft. This program operates on both U.S. coasts and combines field research with hands-on data analysis.
Program Overview
Students in SARP work with NASA’s Airborne Science Program fleet, which uses specialized aircraft to study Earth system processes. The program welcomes 52 students each year to study surface, atmospheric, and oceanographic processes. Students at the University of California, Irvine receive daily guidance from experienced faculty members who also deliver enrichment lectures.
Research Components
The program combines several research elements:
- Students operate onboard instruments to sample atmospheric gasses
- They collect multi-spectral imaging data of land and water surfaces
- Teams perform field site measurements and data collection
- Each student develops an independent research project
Students work together in multi-disciplinary teams and analyze data from their campaigns and NASA’s archives. Each student gives a 12-minute scientific presentation about their research findings. The program selects four outstanding students who receive funding to present their work at the American Geophysical Union fall meeting in San Francisco.
Eligibility Criteria
Students must meet these requirements:
- A strong STEM academic background
- Three completed years of college or senior year status
- Current full-time enrollment at an accredited U.S. college or university
- U.S. citizenship
- GPA requirements listed in the application
The selection team assesses candidates based on their interest in Earth system science research, leadership qualities, team performance, and academic achievements. Students can apply from December 1, 2024, through January 31, 2025 [link_2]. Applications need an essay, two references, undergraduate transcripts, and a resume.
SARP gives complete support with stipends, travel allowances, housing, and local transportation during the program. Many program graduates build careers in Earth science research. Some join airborne field campaigns or pursue graduate degrees with their SARP faculty mentors.
Goddard Space Flight Center Opportunities
NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland serves as the nation’s largest organization of scientists, engineers, and technologists. The team designs state-of-the-art technology to study the solar system and universe. This premier facility creates groundbreaking opportunities in many disciplines that attract future space professionals.
Available Positions
Students can choose from part-time and full-time internships during spring, fall, and summer sessions. The Engineering and Technology Directorate (ETD) welcomes interns in five specialized divisions:
- Mechanical Systems Division
- Instrument Systems and Technology Division
- Electrical Engineering Division
- Software Engineering Division
- Mission Engineering and Systems Analysis Division
Research Areas
GSFC’s Space Weather Laboratory (SWL) leads the development of space weather tools and information. The lab’s current priorities include:
- Live analysis of solar storms to protect satellites
- Projects that boost forecasting capabilities
- Protection of critical space-based infrastructure
- Creation of innovative space weather products with advanced models
The center collaborates with Catholic University of America and shares scientific and computational resources through Goddard’s Community Coordinated Modeling Center.
Application Timeline
The 2025 internship cycles have these deadlines:
- Spring Session: Application due by August 23, 2024
- Summer Session: Application due by February 28, 2025
- Fall Session: Application due by May 16, 2025
Candidates need a minimum 2.9 GPA and must complete 640 work hours before finishing their degree requirements. Selected interns receive full benefits including health insurance, federal retirement plans, and paid holidays.
The center ranks consistently among the Federal Government’s top employers. Students gain hands-on experience solving real-life problems in specialized research areas through university partnerships. These valuable opportunities pave the way for long-term NASA careers, as the center selects interns based on future staffing needs.
Johnson Space Center Internships
Johnson Space Center (JSC) stands at the forefront of human spaceflight operations. The center provides exciting internship opportunities that support Space Operations and Exploration Systems Development Mission Directorates. Students become future space professionals through hands-on experience in mission control and spacecraft development.
Program Structure
JSC uses a unique 9/80 work schedule. Interns work nine days in an 80-hour period. The core hours run from 9 AM to 3 PM. Most teams work from 8 AM to 5 PM and get alternate Fridays off. This schedule helps interns balance their work and personal life effectively.
Research Focus
The center emphasizes active participation in:
- Mission control operations
- Spacecraft systems development
- Space station collaboration
- Advanced propulsion research
- Human factors engineering
Interns work on real assignments that affect NASA’s operations directly. They join professional teams and work with experienced mentors who provide independence and structured support. This approach helps them grow through meaningful projects that contribute to actual NASA missions.
Housing and Facilities
JSC offers several housing options to interns:
- University of Houston – Clear Lake accommodations with various amenities
- Space City Housing platform for short-term rentals
- Furnished corporate apartments starting at $90 per day
The center has the most active intern community among NASA facilities. Social activities include:
- Professional development committees
- Group excursions
- After-work gatherings
- Networking events
Interns have access to complete resources, including online forums to connect with other employees for affordable housing options. Students who receive an internship offer can access Space City Housing, where JSC employees post rooms or homes for short-term leases. Houston’s area provides varied living experiences. Students can choose between downtown nightlife and Galveston’s beach atmosphere, all within reasonable distance.
JPL Space Weather Research Program
JPL pushes the boundaries of space weather research through its Research-to-Operations-to-Research (R2O2R) program. This program helps turn research into ground applications quickly and ensures scientific discoveries serve practical purposes.
Research Areas
JPL’s space weather studies cover several key areas:
- Moon to Mars Space Weather Analysis Office provides live assessments to support NASA’s robotic and human exploration
- Earth scientists create instruments that track atmospheric changes and predict future climate patterns
- The Center for Climate Sciences builds knowledge of Earth’s climate system through research across disciplines
The laboratory works closely with important partners like the NASA Community Coordinated Modeling Center and NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center. These strategic collaborations help scientists get a full picture of how space weather affects exploration missions.
Project Types
JPL’s current space weather projects focus on:
- Microwave radiometer measurements that study Jupiter’s atmosphere through the Juno mission
- Multi-tiered carbon observing systems that track greenhouse gasses at regional scales
- Remote sensing projects that use imaging spectrometers to study atmospheric trace gasses
The Office of Research and Development manages these projects across Earth Science, Planetary Science, and Astrophysics divisions. Scientists combine theoretical and experimental studies to develop innovative mission concepts and instruments.
Application Requirements
Scientists who want to join JPL’s space weather research team must:
- Have full-time positions at accredited U.S. universities for faculty roles
- Be U.S. citizens or permanent residents
- Work full-time during the program
- Present detailed research plans before starting projects
JPL provides opportunities throughout the year, including postdoctoral research positions that last up to three years. Researchers work with JPL advisors on shared research interests and benefit from mentoring networks that open doors to various career paths.
Marshall Space Flight Center Positions
Marshall Space Flight Center’s STEM Engagement division supports NASA’s mission to improve the nation’s future STEM workforce pipeline. This world-class research facility gives students who are passionate about space weather studies and solar physics many opportunities to grow.
Available Opportunities
The Heliophysics and Planetary Science Branch at Marshall has more than 30 federal employees, academic staff, and contractors who support solar physics and space weather science efforts. The center has positions at multiple expertise levels:
- Research Astrophysicist roles that focus on ionospheric responses
- Technical authority positions in space weather
- Principal Investigator opportunities for multidisciplinary teams
- Data analysis and observational technique development roles
Research Focus
The center shows excellence in several specialized domains:
- Solar Physics Studies: Projects explore solar flares, coronal heating processes, sunspot cycles, and solar wind interactions
- Planetary Astronomy: Research covers geophysical modeling of planetary interiors and surface processes
- Gamma-Ray Astronomy: Work involves analyzing data from various space-based observatories
- Heliophysics Research: Studies help understand plasma environments and their interactions with natural and artificial bodies in space
Application Process
Marshall’s research teams welcome candidates who:
- Submit applications through USAJobs portal
- Meet position-specific GS-level requirements
- Show expertise in relevant research areas
- Complete required security clearances
The center values practical experience as much as theoretical knowledge. Selected researchers become Principal or Co-Investigators for future investigations and lead multidisciplinary teams. They get chances to develop research proposals, run funded projects, and share findings through conference participation and peer-reviewed publications.
Marshall stands out from other NASA facilities because of its unique focus on plasma that originates in the ionosphere and its heating in auroral light displays. The center works together with multiple space missions, including SOHO, STEREO, and the Global Oscillations Network Group. This gives interns exposure to innovative research tools and methods.
Virtual Internship Opportunities
NASA offers flexible work arrangements through its virtual internship programs. Students can contribute to space exploration from any location. The remote positions maintain the same high standards and quality mentorship as on-site roles.
Remote Research Projects
Students work on a variety of projects across multiple NASA centers:
- Space weather forecasting and analysis at the Space Weather Research Center
- Data processing for the James Webb Space Telescope mission
- Research supporting the Artemis program and lunar exploration
- Development of space weather models and forecasting tools
Remote analysts start their space weather forecasting duties after completing basic training. They work 8-16 hours each week. Participants become certified entry-level space weather analysts upon completion, which leads to advanced career paths.
Program Structure
The virtual program has a well-laid-out format:
- Mandatory in-person badge collection during the first week
- Full-time (40 hours/week) or part-time options available
- Evening and weekend shifts for academic year positions
- Regular mentorship sessions and project reviews
Students from other countries enrolled in U.S. colleges can work on virtual projects at university locations. This setup allows global talent to contribute while keeping up with their studies.
Technical Requirements
Remote interns need these essential tools:
- Reliable high-speed internet connection
- Computer meeting NASA’s security specifications
- Required software for data analysis and modeling
- Secure workspace for handling sensitive information
The program combines hands-on experience with theoretical knowledge effectively. Virtual interns receive detailed training in space weather basics and operational procedures. Certified interns can advance to higher forecaster levels that blend operations and research duties.
Project duration and academic level determine the compensation. College students earn payment for their work. They can also get course credit or meet graduation requirements with their university’s approval.
NASA Cooperative Education Program
NASA’s Cooperative Education Program combines classroom learning with hands-on work at NASA centers. Students alternate between school semesters and practical work. This unique approach creates well-prepared space professionals through immersive learning.
Program Overview
The program runs at several NASA facilities and hosts about 160 students from 50 schools across the country. Students take paid, full-time positions that directly connect to their studies and get unmatched experience in space research and exploration. They work on actual NASA missions with experienced professionals.
Eligibility Criteria
Students must meet these requirements:
- Be a U.S. citizen
- Keep a minimum 2.9 GPA on a 4.0 scale
- Complete at least 480 work hours before graduation
- Be enrolled or accepted at least half-time in an accredited institution
- Sign a participant agreement and clear background checks
Students in engineering positions must enroll in ABET-accredited professional engineering programs. Some NASA centers need students to finish three semesters before graduation and have specific start dates for group experiences.
Benefits Package
Students get complete benefits similar to permanent employees. These include:
- Competitive bi-weekly pay based on academic progress
- Health, life, dental, and vision insurance
- Federal retirement plan participation
- Paid federal holidays and leave
- Professional development opportunities
Students join existing teams of engineering or business professionals and work on meaningful projects. Each student gets a mentor that helps balance independence with structured support. After completing the program successfully, students can convert to full-time positions without competition, creating a direct path to a NASA career.
NASA ranks as the best workplace in federal government. The co-op program lets students work on real projects that make a difference. Students have helped develop hardware for NASA missions and created flight operation procedures, showing the program’s value clearly.
NASA’s DEVELOP Program started in 1998 at Langley Research Center to connect NASA Earth Science with society. What began as a single office has grown into a nationwide program that supports over 200 participants each year.
Program Description
Young professionals lead research projects that use NASA Earth observations to solve community problems. The program runs at eleven locations across the country and builds tomorrow’s scientists and leaders. Each project focuses on helping partner organizations make better decisions through Earth observation data.
Research Areas
The program focuses on nine key areas:
- Agriculture and Climate Studies
- Ecological Conservation and Energy
- Health and Air Quality Analysis
- Urban Development Planning
- Water Resources Management
- Wildland Fires Assessment
- Disasters Monitoring
- Ecological Forecasting
- Oceanographic Research
Research teams study how NASA’s Earth science capabilities can solve local community challenges. These projects help everyone learn the best ways to use geospatial information.
Application Timeline
Summer 2025 brings both in-person and virtual opportunities. Important dates to remember:
- Application Window: January 13 – February 21, 2025
- Program Duration: June 2 – August 8, 2025
Participants work in small teams of 4-5 people on 10-week research projects. They focus on practical Earth science projects and learn to communicate their findings effectively. The work involves reading scientific literature, using Geographic Information Systems, and creating professional reports and presentations.
Participants need to commit 20-29 hours each week in this collaborative environment. Pay varies based on education and work location. The program gives participants valuable experience in research methods, teamwork, and science communication.
Comparison Table
Program Name | Timeline | Requirements | Research Areas | Application Due Date | Benefits |
NASA Space Weather Internship | June 2 – Aug 8, 2025 | Not specified | Space weather forecasting, solar eruptions, geomagnetic storms | Feb 28, 2025 | Not specified |
NASA Pathways | Multiple semesters | Min 2.9 GPA, U.S. citizen, 16+ years old | NASA projects of all types | Opens Feb & Sept | Bi-weekly pay, health insurance, retirement plan |
NASA Summer Internship | 10 weeks | U.S. citizen, Min 3.0 GPA | Space weather, solar system exploration, heliophysics | March 14, 2025 | Undergrad: $7,300, Grad: $9,000 |
NASA International Internship | Spring, Summer, Fall terms | Strong academic record, English proficiency, Partner country citizen | Space station projects, climate monitoring, aerospace research | Feb 28, 2025 (Summer) | Not specified |
Heliophysics Summer School | Aug 11-20, 2025 | Advanced grad student or early career researcher | Evidence-based heliophysics, solar wind development | Not specified | Travel support, accommodation |
NASA Space Grant Fellowship | Sept 1, 2024 – April 9, 2025 | U.S. citizen, Full-time STEM enrollment | NASA aeronautics and space missions | March 18, 2024 | $20,000 annual stipend |
STEM Engagement Undergraduate | 16 weeks (Spring/Fall), 10 weeks (Summer) | U.S. citizen, Min 3.0 GPA, 16+ years | Business, IT, engineering, security operations | Feb 28, 2025 (Summer) | Based on academic level |
Student Airborne Research | 8 weeks | Senior undergrad, U.S. citizen | Airborne science, atmospheric sampling | Jan 31, 2025 | Stipend, travel, housing |
Goddard Space Flight Center | Spring, Summer, Fall terms | Min 2.9 GPA, 640 work hours needed | Space weather, engineering, technology | Feb 28, 2025 (Summer) | Health insurance, retirement plan |
Johnson Space Center | 9/80 work schedule | Not specified | Mission control, spacecraft systems, human factors | Not specified | Housing assistance |
JPL Space Weather | Year-round | U.S. citizen/permanent resident | Space weather analysis, climate research | Not specified | Not specified |
Marshall Space Flight Center | Not specified | Position-specific requirements | Solar physics, planetary astronomy, heliophysics | Not specified | Not specified |
Virtual Internships | 40 hrs/week (full-time) or part-time | Not specified | Space weather forecasting, telescope missions | Not specified | Based on academic level |
NASA Cooperative Education | Alternating semesters | U.S. citizen, Min 2.9 GPA, 480 work hours | NASA projects of all types | Not specified | Bi-weekly pay, full benefits |
NASA DEVELOP | 10 weeks | Not specified | Earth science, community projects | Feb 21, 2025 | Varies by education/location |
Conclusion
NASA internship programs give students an exceptional chance to become space weather researchers and scientists. Students worldwide can access these programs at different centers through summer hands-on work or virtual positions.
Each program helps students grow through specialized training, mentorship, and real-life experience. Working with NASA scientists on actual missions lets students build crucial skills while earning competitive pay and complete benefits. Research topics range from solar physics to atmospheric studies, so students can find what interests them most.
NASA internships launch successful careers in space science. Many former interns have ended up as top researchers, professors, and entrepreneurs. NASA’s wide network of centers offers many paths for students. They can join groundbreaking space weather research through various program formats and timeframes.
These internships shape tomorrow’s space weather experts and help NASA learn about solar activities that affect Earth’s environment. This piece outlines program requirements, deadlines, and research areas to help you find the right NASA internship that will jumpstart your space weather career.