7 Ways to Celebrate National Intern Day with NASA

National Intern Day is celebrated annually to recognize and highlight the contributions of interns throughout different industries and fields of work. At every NASA center nationwide, interns play a critical role in our mission success.

The work of interns at NASA reaches far and wide.  Whether they’re contributing to our social media presence, supporting an engineering project that will one day return humanity to the Moon, or even chronicling NASA’s rich history, our interns’ contributions make us proud.

Looking to join in the celebration this National Intern Day? Here are seven ways for interns, mentors, and past interns to celebrate NASA internships.

  1. Ask Questions in Our Instagram AMA (Ask Me Anything)

Alt Text: Two female interns wearing blue NASA flight suits stand smiling with their hands behind their backs. Behind them, a large multirotor aircraft sits idle on the runway. The distance clear blue sky makes up the top of the image. Credit: NASA/Angelique Herring
Alt Text: Two female interns wearing blue NASA flight suits stand smiling with their hands behind their backs. Behind them, a large multirotor aircraft sits idle on the runway. The distance clear blue sky makes up the top of the image. Credit: NASA/Angelique Herring

“What’s it like being a NASA intern? What is the day-to-day of an intern at NASA? What are some of the coolest things interns get to see during their internship? How do you become a NASA intern?”

We’ve got your answers! Join our Instagram Ask Me Anything session on @NASAInternships story, where current interns, former interns, and mentors will answer your questions live.

  1. Use Our Celebration Toolkit

Two NASA interns pose together for a selfie by taking an image of the reflective visor of an extravehicular activity spacesuit. The rounded visor creates a fisheye effect on duo wearing business professional attire. Credit: Matt McDonnell/NASA
Two NASA interns pose together for a selfie by taking an image of the reflective visor of an extravehicular activity spacesuit. The rounded visor creates a fisheye effect on duo wearing business professional attire. Credit: Matt McDonnell/NASA

Are you loving your NASA internship experience? Were you a former intern who now works at NASA full-time? Have you mentored interns and enriched the lives of others?

Explore our Celebration Toolkit on our blog! This resource features unique visuals crafted for social media, perfect for commemorating #NationalInternDay and showcasing your NASA internship’s impact on your journey and career.

  1. Hear From Interns Past and Present About Working at NASA

    A graphic featuring three smiling interns prominently reads "NASA Intern Experience: Insights from Interns & Mentors. Friday, July 26 at 12pm ET." The visual is white and light blue, two of the three official colors of the NASA logo. The bottom of the image reads "Learn more at intern.nasa.gov." Credit: NASA
    A graphic featuring three smiling interns prominently reads “NASA Intern Experience: Insights from Interns & Mentors. Friday, July 26 at 12pm ET.” The visual is white and light blue, two of the three official colors of the NASA logo. The bottom of the image reads “Learn more at intern.nasa.gov.” Credit: NASA

Celebrate NASA Intern Week with us at our virtual intern event on July 26, 2024, at 12:00 pm EST! Join current NASA interns and mentors for insights into life at NASA, valuable advice from mentors, program details, and an interactive Q&A. This virtual event is open to everyone.

  1. Have a Networking and Career Guidance Discussion

    NASA intern Julia Tilton interviews UAE astronaut Sultan al-Neyadi. al-Neyadi wears the iconic blue jumpsuit of an astronaut and gestures with his hands. Tilton is facing away from the camera and speaks with al-Neyadi in business professional attire. Credit: NASA
    NASA intern Julia Tilton interviews UAE astronaut Sultan al-Neyadi. al-Neyadi wears the iconic blue jumpsuit of an astronaut and gestures with his hands. Tilton is facing away from the camera and speaks with al-Neyadi in business professional attire. Credit: NASA

Take advantage of this moment to seek valuable career advice from your mentor! Build a sturdy foundation to launch your future career post-internship with networking skills and advice gained from a more experienced mentor. Whether you’re curious about which NASA centers specialize in your field of study or seeking guidance on creating a resume for future applications, your mentor is poised to offer tailored insights and guidance.

  1. Share Your Internship Accomplishments

Engineer Jamesa Stokes works in a special laboratory testing advanced materials to see how they behave in extreme space environments. Credit: NASA/Jef Janis
Engineer Jamesa Stokes works in a special laboratory testing advanced materials to see how they behave in extreme space environments. Jamesa smiles at the camera wearing casual attire. Credit: NASA/Jef Janis

Did you find a planet orbiting two suns at once, discover a new aurora shape, create accurate flight simulations for the public, or design and test prototype space washing machines? Share your successes and accomplishments as a NASA intern with the world using #NASAIntern and #ArtemisGeneration.

  1. Get Involved with NASA STEM

Two Human Exploration Rover Challenge competitors pilot their human-powered rover through the course at NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center. The duo wear bicycle helmets and pedal their metallic rover over gravelly terrain. Throughout the foreground, large orange cones guide the rover's path. In the background, onlookers watch from beneath a large NASA pop-up tent. A large rock and stationary jet sit in the far background. Credit: NASA
Two Human Exploration Rover Challenge competitors pilot their human-powered rover through the course at NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center. The duo wear bicycle helmets and pedal their metallic rover over gravelly terrain. Throughout the foreground, large orange cones guide the rover’s path. In the background, onlookers watch from beneath a large NASA pop-up tent. A large rock and stationary jet sit in the far background. Credit: NASA

Engaging with NASA STEM lays the framework for applying to a NASA internship in the future. By participating, you can gain firsthand exposure to NASA’s mission and projects, which enhances your understanding of the agency’s goals and operations. Active engagement often includes networking opportunities with professionals already working at NASA.

Learn more about how you can get involved: stem.nasa.gov.

  1. Apply for a NASA Internship

    A NASA intern in business casual attire sits in the Mission Control Center at NASA's Johnson Space Center. Looking forward at the console of computer monitors with data. In the background the large screens of Mission Control dominate. Credit: NASA
    A NASA intern in business casual attire sits in the Mission Control Center at NASA’s Johnson Space Center. Looking forward at the console of computer monitors with data. In the background the large screens of Mission Control dominate. Credit: NASA

Now that you’ve seen the behind-the-scenes fun of a NASA internship, we hope you’ll consider becoming a NASA intern yourself — or, if you’re already part of the team, continuing your internship for an additional session. As a friendly reminder: our Spring 2025 OSTEM Internship applications close on August 23, 2024.

Climate and You: NASA Intern Supports Sustainability

Growing up along the Southwest Florida coast, Audrey Berlie has always been surrounded by and enjoyed nature. She credits her mom, who homeschooled her, with fostering her love for science and the environment. But the sadness she felt from seeing plastic pollution and red tides in her backyard became her call to action.

“When you see something that you love and grow up with being affected, every day it instills something in you,” said Berlie.

Alt Text: Audrey Berlie wears a black and orange visibility vest during a research hike at Florida’s Big Cypress National Preserve. She stands with her back to the camera at the right of the photo listening to a park ranger who rests on a shovel. They are surrounded by cypress trees and standing in shallow water. Credit: NASA
Alt Text: Audrey Berlie wears a black and orange visibility vest during a research hike at Florida’s Big Cypress National Preserve. She stands with her back to the camera at the right of the photo listening to a park ranger who rests on a shovel. They are surrounded by cypress trees and standing in shallow water. Credit: NASA

Berlie was involved in conservation work throughout high school and is currently undertaking dual degrees in environmental science and environmental business as an Environmental Fellow at Stetson University in DeLand, Florida.

As an intern at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston, Berlie supports the Center Operations Directorate’s Sustainability Team to implement sustainability projects in collaboration across divisions including logistics, planning, security, environmental, and facilities management. During her internship, she designed and wrote the Sustainability Snapshot report for fiscal years 2022 and 2023 and streamlined Johnson’s greenhouse gas accounting system. Berlie also organized Climate and You, monthly talks with experts from Johnson and industry on how climate change is impacting natural and human systems in Texas and beyond.

“How I got to NASA was really just an accident, in all frankness,” Berlie said. “I saw a posting for NASA internships on LinkedIn, and I was like, ‘they’re not going to have anything for me.’”

To her surprise, Berlie discovered a sustainability internship position at Johnson that perfectly matched her interests and skillset.

Alt text: Berlie stands to the right of a mural in progress, which she led as part of her environmental fellowship. The mural depicts an aerial bird’s-eye view of where Lake Beresford meets the St. John’s River, references the river’s native projectile points, shell mounds, snails, pottery designs, and includes to the far right a scroll with the state of Florida. Berlie wears black and white sneakers, black pants, and a white V-neck shirt.
Alt text: Berlie stands to the right of a mural in progress, which she led as part of her environmental fellowship. The mural depicts an aerial bird’s-eye view of where Lake Beresford meets the St. John’s River, references the river’s native projectile points, shell mounds, snails, pottery designs, and includes to the far right a scroll with the state of Florida. Berlie wears black and white sneakers, black pants, and a white V-neck shirt. Credit: NASA

Since accepting her internship, she’s discovered an unexpected interest in space sustainability as a future career path.

“My expertise has been focused on Earth,” she said. “But after going to all the talks and the different events at NASA and hearing about development in space, I started thinking, ‘Wow, this is repeating what we’ve seen on Earth.’”

Reflecting on her previous internships, NASA stands out as one of the strongest programs she has ever experienced.

“It’s a well-oiled machine. I haven’t talked to any NASA interns [who] have felt like they had nothing to do,” Berlie said “[NASA] makes sure that you’re learning from and getting the most out of your internship.”

Alt text: Berlie poses with two of her fellow interns tabling for Houston Energy Day. Berlie wears white sneakers, brown flared leggings, and a striped blazer and stands to the right of the photo, holding the arm of a tall inflatable astronaut in a white and red space suit and a golden helmet between the three.
Alt text: Berlie poses with two of her fellow interns tabling for Houston Energy Day. Berlie wears white sneakers, brown flared leggings, and a striped blazer and stands to the right of the photo, holding the arm of a tall inflatable astronaut in a white and red space suit and a golden helmet between the three. Credit: NASA

When asked about her favorite part about being a NASA intern, Berlie points to the culture.

“NASA is truly people-focused and mission-focused,” she said. “I have met the most amazing people here because all of them are so ambitious, intelligent, kind, innovative, and creative. They’re all looking to make the world a better place. That’s who NASA attracts.”

Looking back, Berlie noted, that though her path to NASA seems linear and planned in hindsight, it didn’t feel as straightforward in the moment—and that’s okay.

“I felt like everything was collapsing in on itself and I was just going from thing to thing without a story to tie it all together,” she said. “But even if you don’t have a goal in mind, as long as you’re taking initiative and pursuing your passions, you’ll end up where you need to be.”

Heidi Pan/NASA Headquarters

She Speaks for the Trees: Intern Helps Communicate Earth Science

NASA studies our own planet more than any other. We observe Earth’s oceans, land, ice, and atmosphere, and measure how a change in one drives change in others. It is critical that the data and science collected through these studies are communicated with the public, as we all have a role to play in preserving our planet.

That is exactly where Julia Tilton comes in. Tilton, an Earth and environmental sciences major, is interning at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Maryland as a member of the Earth Science news team. She plays an instrumental role in conveying the stories behind NASA’s Earth science missions to the broader public.

In fact, earlier this year, NASA released findings that 2023 was Earth’s warmest year since modern record-keeping began around 1880, and the past 10 consecutive years have been the warmest 10 on record. In her first day interning at NASA, she worked in the control room to confirm upcoming interviews with news stations across the globe as this alarming data was shared publicly.

Alt Text: NASA intern Julia Tilton poses in the Earth Information Center at NASA Headquarters in DC. Tilton wears business casual attire and a blue NASA polo shirt. The background of the image is dominated by a large computer display of live visualizations of Earth data sourced from satellites in orbit. Credit: NASA
Alt Text: NASA intern Julia Tilton poses in the Earth Information Center at NASA Headquarters in DC. Tilton wears business casual attire and a blue NASA polo shirt. The background of the image is dominated by a large computer display of live visualizations of Earth data sourced from satellites in orbit. Credit: NASA

Tilton’s experiences on the Earth Science news team have ranged from writing engaging stories for platforms like NASA’s Earth Observatory and NASA.gov to contributing to the interactive Earth Information Center exhibit at NASA Headquarters in Washington, D.C., and even interviewing astronauts!

Alt Text: NASA intern Julia Tilton interviews UAE astronaut Sultan al-Neyadi. al-Neyadi wears the iconic blue jumpsuit of an astronaut and gestures with his hands. Tilton is facing away from the camera and speaks with al-Neyadi in business professional attire. In the background a large model of the Hubble Space Telescope is on display. Credit: NASA
Alt Text: NASA intern Julia Tilton interviews UAE astronaut Sultan al-Neyadi. al-Neyadi wears the iconic blue jumpsuit of an astronaut and gestures with his hands. Tilton is facing away from the camera and speaks with al-Neyadi in business professional attire. In the background a large model of the Hubble Space Telescope is on display. Credit: NASA

Moving forward, Tilton aims to branch out from science writing.

“Print is just one way in which our society consumes information, ” she said. “I feel it is essential that I gain experience in other media.”

To that end, she aims to continue to support NASA as member of the agency’s audio team contributing to NASA’s portfolio of podcasts.

For others seeking to follow in her footsteps, Tilton shares  “A common misconception about interning at NASA is that you have to be extremely knowledgeable about space in order to be a competitive candidate. Instead, I think arriving ready to pursue what you are passionate about and being hungry to hone your craft are what will propel you the farthest. Regardless of your field of interest, I think if you approach an internship striving to explore and grow, you will find space for yourself at NASA.”

 

Gabriela Carr/NASA Headquarters

NASA Interns: The Artemis Generation Starts With Us

NASA is entering a new era of space exploration. Through the Artemis program, NASA will land the first woman and person of color on the Moon. The advances made in our return to the lunar surface will later pave the way for human exploration of Mars—taking humanity further than ever before.

Helming this new era of exploration is the Artemis Generation. Like the Apollo Generation before them, these star-sailors are the pioneers of tomorrow and bring forth a new golden age of space discovery.

The Artemis Generation begins now, with us. The NASA interns of today are the Artemis leaders of tomorrow. We interviewed two current interns to better understand their thoughts on the future of NASA and their roles with Artemis.

MACKENZI HAUB | Pathways Intern at NASA’s Johnson Space Center
Alt Text: Mackenzi Haub, white woman with red hair and blue eyes, smiles while standing with her hands on her hips. Haub wears a brown suit with a black shirt. Behind her is a NASA display case for the Space Shuttle Program and an astronaut suit.
Alt Text: Mackenzi Haub, a white woman with red hair and blue eyes, smiles while standing with her hands on her hips. Haub wears a brown suit with a black shirt. Behind her is a NASA display case for the Space Shuttle Program and an astronaut suit.

How has your internship at NASA contributed to your understanding of the Artemis mission and Artemis Generation? 

As an intern, I have had the opportunity to meet some of the most courageous, quick-witted, observant problem solvers in the world. For example, my mentor, Jerry Condon, taught me more about Artemis and space travel than I could have ever imagined I would learn in a three-month timespan. Every time we spoke, I felt like I had learned a new component of spaceflight and mission planning. I learned about lunar craters, rocket propulsion, moon dust, and so much more.

During my project, I learned about lighting on the lunar surface and how it will affect Artemis III mission availability due to visibility issues during the landing of the Human Landing System (HLS), the vehicle that will bring humans back to the lunar surface for the first time in over 50 years. Jerry gave me a lot of control over the project and was very encouraging through all the learning curves I faced. He is a perfect example – one of many– of how NASA is fostering the Artemis Generation.

Interns come in with new minds and new ideas on how to solve problems. This is encouraged and celebrated at NASA. A new idea is never frowned upon. The Artemis Generation has a lot of work to do, and past NASA generations are doing a great job paving the way for us to contribute to the next several years’ worth of spaceflight innovation.

Alt Text: NASA intern Mackenzi Haub, looks at a console control screen at NASA's Johnson Space Center. On the screen topography and graphics are visible.
Alt Text: NASA intern Mackenzi Haub, looks at a console control screen at NASA’s Johnson Space Center while utilizing a flight stick. On the screen topography and graphics are visible.

In what ways do you think the Artemis program is shaping the future for the next generation of space enthusiasts and professionals?

In a world where everything is fast paced and viewed on a screen, we need to make sure the Artemis program continues to be filmed and presented to the younger generations. Photos of the Moon from Orion during Artemis I, live feed of the Space Launch System rocket during launch, videos of the Artemis II crew training to return to the Moon… these are all essential in growing the next generation. Nothing excites my nephew more than the fire from a rocket as it leaves Earth. He doesn’t know exactly how important that fire is yet, but as long as we continue showing the younger generations the wonder that is spaceflight, I have no doubt that he will itch to learn more one day.

DOMINIQUE CRESPO | Pathways Intern at NASA’s Johnson Space Center
Alt Text: Dominique Crespo, a Hispanic woman with brown hair and brown eyes smiles for an official NASA portrait. In the background the red, white, and blue U.S. flag and NASA flag server as backdrops. She wears business professional attire.
Alt Text: Dominique Crespo, a Hispanic woman with brown hair and brown eyes smiles for an official NASA portrait. In the background, the red, white, and blue U.S. flag and NASA flag serve as backdrops. She wears business professional attire.

How has your internship at NASA contributed to your understanding of the Artemis mission and Artemis Generation? 

Throughout my internship, I have seen the Artemis II crew go through many milestones, from the day they were announced, to their media opportunities around the world, and their growth as astronauts and individuals every day here at NASA’s Johnson Space Center. The Artemis program’s integrity has immersed itself in my everyday life – I see the impact the program has on students and the NASA workforce as the human contribution to meet such an advanced end goal has become an inspiration to many. Inspiring the youth to reach for the stars has become a prominent duty of mine. As a part of the Artemis Generation, I believe this program and its missions will change the future of space exploration and become the blueprint for young dreamers to take us further and further.

How has your experience as an intern in this program influenced your career aspirations and interest in the field? 

Alt Text: Dominique Crespo, an intern at NASA's Johnson Space Center, wears a headset and smiles while sitting at a console in the Mission Control Center. Behind her numerous computer monitors take up a desk and the background is dominated by massive screens displaying data and information about the International Space Station.
Alt Text: Dominique Crespo, an intern at NASA’s Johnson Space Center, wears a headset and smiles while sitting at a console in the Mission Control Center. Behind her numerous computer monitors take up a desk and the background is dominated by massive screens displaying data and information about the International Space Station.

Being an intern in public affairs has changed my mindset in many ways, especially since I work so closely with our astronaut corps. The Artemis program has inspired me to push further in my career and has given me the opportunity to see the power and intelligence humans hold in space exploration. I feel honored to be able to be one of the people behind the scenes who shares Artemis with the public, and the program itself is something that I am extremely proud to be a part of. As an intern, I view myself as one of the many reasons why students think it is possible to be a part of the agency, and I take pride in knowing that I give our youth hope in their futures as a part of the space program.

Want to join us and play a leading role in the Artemis Generation? Apply for a NASA internship at intern.nasa.gov

Gracie Glover/NASA Headquarters

100 Unique NASA Internship Opportunities Worth A Second Look (Fall ’24)


Remember: Applications for fall 2024 are due by April 12, 2024, at 11:59 p.m. ET.

Lasers, lunar architecture, and particle stoichiometry—nerd out with a NASA internship this fall!

With less than a week left to apply for our fall 2024 NASA internships, we’ve assembled this list of 100 unique opportunities you can apply to right now. 

To get started:

  1. Head to stemgateway.nasa.gov and log in or create an account.
  2. Copy and paste the six-digit unique ID number for a role from the list below into the search bar.
  3. Review the specific details of the opportunity to see if you’d be a good fit.
  4. If interested, click the large apply button in the top right of the position listing.
  5. Repeat. (You can apply to more than one opportunity!)

Application Tip:

In the application when asked “Why do you want this NASA Internship?” give an honest response that demonstrates your passion or what you can bring to the role. This is one of the few places in your application to make yourself stand out.

List of Opportunities:

1. Aeronautics at Ames Research Center Fall 2024 018368
2. Agile Business Analyst for NASA STEM Gateway 018370
3. CALPHAD applied to in-space laser manufacturing 017840
4. Evaluation of the mesosphere in GEOS-5 017849
5. Explorations Technology at Ames Research Center Fall 2024 018371
6. Human Landing System (HLS)-GNC Deep Space Navigation 018085
7. MELD Project Intern 018022
8. Space Operations Data Analytics & Knowledge Management Project 017905
9. Characterization of Nuclear Radiation Effects on SiC Sensors 018151
10. Dependency modeling 017936
11. Estimation of extreme values and tail probabilities for reliability analysis 018136
12. Hyperspectral Imaging 018004
13. NASA Spanish-language Journalism, Multimedia, Social Media Intern
017869
14. Polymer Electrolytes for All-Solid-State High Performance Batteries 017835
15. Project Management Dashboard Development 017827
16. Electrified Aircraft Interactive Visualization at NASA Graphics Lab 018047
17. Exploring the drivers of variation of evapotranspiration in the Southeastern U.S 018132
18. Fission Surface Power: Nuclear power on Moon&Mars for sustained human presence3 018141
19. Impacts of ISS on Drosophila CNS 018174
20. Material and Electrical Characterization of Metal contacts to SiC 018148
21. Particle Stoichiometry for Life Detection 017853
22. Science Internship at Ames Research Center Fall 2024 018369
23. Smoke Plume Monitoring Using TEMPO and Radar Measurements 017947
24. Two Phase Flow Experimental Research in Microgravity Fall 2024 018109
25. CFO Business Systems Operations POC – Sharepoint Transition 017555
26. Correlated Electromagnetic Levitation Actuator (CELA) 017249
27. Hybrid – DEIA & NExCT Support 018084
28. Onsite – Engineer/Researcher in the Bioengineering Branch 017731
29. STEM Engagement Support 018140
30. Sustainability Ambassador – Strategic Communications Support EPFD 017841
31. ASTRO CAMP Collaborative Partners Supporting Hispanic Programs in STEM 017959
32. ETD Magnetic Shape Memory Alloy Actuator for nano-positioning 017892
33. Industrial Hygiene Intern 017763
34. Office of STEM Engagement Social and Digital Media Intern 018093
35. Safe, High Performing Battery Designs 018236
36. US Greenhouse Gas Center Program Support Intern 017897
37. Archives Intern – Langley Research Center (in-person) 018060
38. Characterization of high strain composite materials and structures 018183
39. Communications Support 018072
40. Cryogenic CFD RDRE Modeling 018074
41. Earth Information Center Coordinator 017845
42. High Temperature Oven Construction 018147
43. History of Student Engagement in the Earth Science Branch 017948
44. IR Spectroscopy 017822
45. ISS Water Recovery Management Modeling and Data Trending 017991
46. Magnetic Shape Memory Alloy Actuator for nano-positioning 017864
47. Mars Mission Architecture Integration 018348
48. Mechanical and Electrical Optimization of the COSmIC facility 017823
49. Miniaturized instruments enabled by nanomaterials for space missions 017857
50. NASA Natural Resource Management Support 018168
51. Processing, Testing and Characterization of Light Weight Composite Conductors 017764
52. Safe DNN-enabled Autonomous Systems 017780
53. Structural Strength Test Instrumentation Engineer 017842
54. Telescope Structural Optimization 018149
55. Updating EMTAT Simulink graphical programming language 017990
56. Virtual: Indigenous Peoples Initiative Outreach 018207
57. Air quality prediction using TEMPO data 017926
58. Computational Materials-informed Q&C 017832
59. Computational Studies in Hypersonic Aerothermodynamics 018210
60. Design & Development of Molecular-based Laser Diagnostics 018209
61. Design of frequency selective surfaces (FSSs) and antennas on PCB and
flexible s 017968
62. ETD Develop a verification methodology for fixed-point digital controllers 017894
63. Lunar Architecture Team 018037
64. NASA Audio Storytelling Internship 017867
65. Outreach Support for Scientific Computing Visualization Lab 017769
66. Precision Eddy Current Displacement Sensor 017866
67. Remote sensing of marine debris 018216
68. SMD – Office 365 Power Platform Development 017725
69. Soft Matter Science Research in Microgravity Fall 2024 018110
70. Water Resources Project Impact Follow up 018171
71. ABoVE Collaborations and Engagement Intern 018019
72. Advanced Deployment Mechanisms for Deployable Space Trusses 018182
73. Crater Navigation 017920
74. ETD Modular Mechanism Control Electronics for Spaceflight Instruments 017862
75. Fiber Optics Sensing System Electrical Engineering Fall 2024 018164
76. Gateway STEM outreach project 018092
77. Illustration/Graphic Design Intern 017733
78. Illustration/Graphic Design Intern 017954
79. Implementing the CSWA Strategic Plan 017900
80. KSC Energy and Water Conservation and Resiliency 017969
81. MPS Lifecycle Analysis Process Integration 017720
82. Nanoengineered multifunctional perovskites: 017933
83. ONSITE – Greater Heights VR Experience Development 018066
84. Onsite – Laser Spark Analysis 017791
85. Powder Removal In Microgravity Environments (PRIME) Project 018142
86. Structural Strength Test Engineer 017843
87. Towards Justified Confidence 017828
88. Uncovering the role of old growth forests on the terrestrial carbon cycle 018133
89. Virtual- Carbon Cycle Research with the CASA Model 018157
90. Battery Material Intern 018018
91. Characterization of a Composite Foldable Antenna Reflector for the Lunar Surface 018180
92. Coordination of NASA’s Water Quality and Coastal Relevant Activities 018170
93. EIC Web Designer 017846
94. Fission Surface Power: Nuclear power on Moon&Mars for sustained human presence2 018145
95. IMPACT TOOL SUITE FOR MEDICAL SYSTEM TRADE ANALYSES AND DECISION SUPPORT 018123
96. Modeling Mission Operations As A System 017983
97. Onsite – Bioengineering & Instrumentation Group Internship 018015
98. Onsite – Engineer/Researcher in the Bioengineering Branch 017870
99. Space Technology Communications and Outreach Intern 018115

100. Surface to Space: Bringing new data to ecosystem models 018135

 

Do you have any question about NASA’s internships that you can't find in our FAQ? Send us an email and we’ll do our best to answer your question.

Meet One of NASA’s Newest Astronauts: Former Intern Deniz Burnham

Over the past two years, NASA’s newest class of astronaut candidates has undergone extensive training. Together, they’ve practiced for spacewalks in the Neutral Buoyancy Laboratory, flown in T-38 jets, familiarized themselves with the International Space Station, learned the Russian language, and more. 

This class of twelve graduates includes a former NASA intern-turned-astronaut, Deniz Burnham. Burnham, who interned at NASA’s Ames Research Center, cites becoming an astronaut as a lifelong dream, and her internship as an important step in that process.

“That internship for me was such a wonderful experience too, because I was like, you know, hey, even if I don’t become an astronaut, I always wanted to be a part of NASA,” she said. 

In addition to her experience as a former NASA intern, Burnham is a lieutenant in the U.S. Navy and earned a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering and a master’s in mechanical engineering. She’s also an experienced leader in the energy industry, having managed onsite drilling projects and oil rigs for over a decade, including the Arctic in Alaska, Northern Alberta in Canada, and Texas. 

Alt Text: NASA astronaut candidates Anil Menon, Deniz Burnham, and Marcos Berrios pose for a photograph in front of NASA’s Artemis I Space Launch System and Orion spacecraft atop the mobile launcher on the pad at Launch Complex 39B. The trio wear blue flight suits and smile. In the background the orange structure of the SLS towers open grass fields. Image Credit: NASA/Steven Seipel
Alt Text: NASA astronaut candidates Anil Menon, Deniz Burnham, and Marcos Berrios pose for a photograph in front of NASA’s Artemis I Space Launch System and Orion spacecraft atop the mobile launcher on the pad at Launch Complex 39B. The trio wear blue flight suits and smile. In the background the orange structure of the SLS towers open grass fields. Image Credit: NASA/Steven Seipel

In fact, she shares the experience she gained in oil fields as a part of her advice for others who wish to become astronauts. 

“Try to be your own person. There are so many skillsets and backgrounds that could lead to [becoming an astronaut],” Burnham said. “It’s how you articulate your skillset. Focus on something that other operators will recognize. [For example] working in remote locations and making time-critical decisions.”

When asked about her favorite part of her astronaut candidate training, she shared, “I’d say the favorite for me, just in terms of like a core memory, was getting to try on the suit for the first time. It’s something that you always picture in your mind. As a child, you know, you try to see yourself in the suits because you get to see all these pictures and then you actually get to try it on for yourself. And it was pretty incredible.” 

Alt Text: NASA's Astronaut Group 23 poses with NASA's leadershing in blue flight suits smiling. Behind them the U.S. flag dominates a hangar space filled with two jet aircraft. The group smiles at the camera. Image Credit: NASA/Robert Markowitz
Alt Text: NASA’s Astronaut Group 23 poses in blue flight suits with NASA’s leaders. Behind them, the U.S. flag dominates a hangar space filled with two jet aircraft. The group smiles at the camera. Image Credit: NASA/Robert Markowitz

Want to learn more about our newest class of astronauts? Hear from the rest of Astronaut Group 23 “The Flies” in the latest episode of our Houston We Have A Podcast.

Interested in becoming an astronaut yourself? Check out these resources we’ve prepared on how to start down your path to space.

In Their Own Words: Asia Alexander’s Journey with NASA and the Women Who Illuminated the Way

As I embarked on my NASA journey, little did I know that the possibilities awaiting me were as vast as the cosmic expanse we strive to explore. The awe-inspiring space agency has become my workplace and a sanctuary where I find the courage to dream beyond the stars. It’s a safe space that fosters creativity and innovation, but what indeed elevates the experience is the remarkable presence of black women who have become beacons of inspiration in my orbit.

Within the agency’s confines, I discovered the transformative power of representation and the profound impact it has on one’s aspirations. The NASA 2040 project, a venture close to my heart, serves as a conduit for making the agency more inclusive and accepting. Every day, I am privileged to contribute to this visionary initiative, working towards a future where everyone, regardless of background, can reach for the stars with unwavering belief.

NASA intern Asia sits beside two NASA employees in professional attire at a conference. Below them, the carpet brandishes a NASA meatball logo. In addition, we see the names of NASA centers obscured behind them.
Alt Text: NASA intern Asia Alexander sits beside two NASA employees in professional attire as part of a panel. Below them, the carpet brandishes a NASA meatball logo. In addition, we see the names of different NASA centers on a banner obscured behind them. Photo Credit: NASA

In the heart of NASA’s administration suite, I serve as a communications intern for the NASA 2040 project, where the essence of progress and change pulsates through every task. The journey is not just about reaching a destination; it’s about paving the way for those who will follow. It’s about making NASA a place where dreams know no boundaries.

As I embarked on my NASA journey, the trailblazers before me cast a luminous path, a trajectory illuminated by Mae Jemison, who boldly ventured into space, allowing aspiring individuals like me to soar beyond earthly limitations. Amidst the stellar colleagues who inspire me daily, I am acutely aware that I stand on the shoulders of extraordinary black women whose presence has been a guiding light in my cosmic journey.

Astronaut Mae C. Jemison, STS-47 mission specialist, appears to be clicking her heels in zero-gravity in this 35mm frame photographed in the Science Module aboard the Earth-orbiting Space Shuttle Endeavour. Credit: NASA
Alt Text: Astronaut Mae C. Jemison, STS-47 mission specialist, appears to be clicking her heels in zero-gravity aboard the Earth-orbiting Space Shuttle Endeavour. She wears a cream colored NASA sweater and navy blue standard-issue astronaut pants. The background of the image is the interior of Spacelab. Photo Credit: NASA

Laurie Grindle, Clare Lucky, Faith McKie, Gerelle Dodson, and Vanessa Wyche stand as trailblazers in a historically underrepresented industry. Shattering glass ceilings and proving that the sky is not the limit, these phenomenal women have not only ascended through the ranks at NASA but have also become beacons of inspiration for those of us who follow in their footsteps.

Alt Text; NASA's Johnson Space Center Director Vanessa Wyche poses before the Neutral Buoyancy Lab. Wearing a dress, Wyche smiles in front of the large pool which astronauts train within. In the background a large facility includes hanging flags of member nations of the International Space Station. Image Credit: NASA/Bill Stafford
Alt Text: NASA’s Johnson Space Center Director Vanessa Wyche poses before the Neutral Buoyancy Lab. Wearing a dress, Wyche smiles in front of the large pool which astronauts train within. In the background a large facility includes hanging flags of member nations of the International Space Station. Image Credit: NASA/Bill Stafford

Mae Jemison’s historic journey into space broke barriers and opened new frontiers, carving a path through the cosmos that echoes with the spirit of ‘Because of Them I Can.’ Her legacy, intertwined with the triumphs of those like Grindle, Lucky, McKie, Dodson, and Wyche, is a testament to the indomitable human spirit and the infinite possibilities that await when we dare to dream.

I’m part of a journey inspired by trailblazers at NASA. Fueled by a desire for progress, NASA is more than a workplace; it’s where we paint a future celebrating diversity. The legacy of those before me propels me to envision NASA reflecting humanity’s rich tapestry, nurturing every dream. As torchbearers, we carry the lit torch of trailblazers, ensuring the legacy endures, evolving each day. With them, we reach for the stars, a testament to boundless potential.

Asia Alexander/NASA Headquarters

Decades in the Making: Intern’s Non-Traditional Path to NASA Internship

Since the inaugural space shuttle launch in 1981, former intern Mike Fogg has dreamt of working at NASA. Fogg has applied for NASA opportunities since the early 2000s. As Fogg increased his expertise, he continued to apply for internships, but felt that he was at a disadvantage for not having a space-related degree.

“I’ve wanted to work for NASA almost as long as I can remember. I think my first application with NASA was in 2001 or 2002, after I’d left school the first time, for a position for which I was wildly unqualified,” Fogg said.

Fogg returned to school in 2017 to receive a degree in space studies from American Military University. With some convincing from his mentor, he applied to multiple NASA intern positions and ultimately received an internship offer for a role at NASA Headquarters in summer 2023.

“The feeling of finally accepting a position with NASA after so long was one of the greatest senses of relief and excitement I’ve ever felt. The day I received the offer letter stands as one of the most memorable of my life,” Fogg said.

Alt Text: Mike Fogg poses in front of a sculpture of the NASA worm logo outside of NASA Headquarters in Washington D.C. NASA is spelled out in large red and shiny block letters. Photo Credit: Mike Fogg
Alt Text: Mike Fogg poses in front of a sculpture of the NASA worm logo outside of NASA Headquarters in Washington D.C. NASA is spelled out in large red and shiny block letters. Photo Credit: Mike Fogg

Fogg refers to himself as a non-traditional student. Before receiving the internship, Fogg worked a variety of jobs, from computer systems analyst and project lead at the United States Patent & Trademark Office to technical editor for a forensic engineering firm.

“The ‘traditional’ path to NASA seems to be getting hired just after graduating college or out of the military, whereas I kind of had an entire career beforehand. It’s certainly not a traditional path to be having an internship in your late 40s,” Fogg said.

Fogg worked with NASA’s Space Technology Mission Directorate to update the TechPort website and related database. TechPort houses NASA’s active and complete technology projects. Fogg worked alongside his mentor, Jonathan Bowie.

Alt Text: Mike Fogg stands with his hands on his hips on the edge of the pool inside NASA's Neutral Buoyancy Laboratory. Within the large pool a replica of the International Space Station is visible beneath the water surface. Photo Credit: NASA
Alt Text: Mike Fogg stands with his hands on his hips on the edge of the pool inside NASA’s Neutral Buoyancy Laboratory. Within the large pool a replica of the International Space Station is visible beneath the water surface.
Photo Credit: NASA

“My mentor has been immensely supportive, not just of the work I’m doing as an intern, but of my attempts to pursue a career here at NASA,” Fogg said. “I have been taught a lot about the inner workings of NASA, its infrastructure, what NASA’s goals are, and how NASA is looking to the future of space exploration.”

Fogg encourages other non-traditional students to “keep trying. As much as you want it to, success is not going to come overnight. Also, you’ve probably got a healthy dose of imposter syndrome due to attempting to change careers later in life – be aware of that and know that you’re not alone in that. It’s never too late.”

Gracie Glover/NASA Headquarters

In Their Own Words: Trish Elliston’s Reflection on Her SkillBridge Experience at NASA

After a 25-year career in the military that spanned service in both the Navy and Coast Guard, I will be starting a second career at NASA’s Johnson Space Center (JSC), all thanks to the SkillBridge Program.

Former NASA skill bridge intern Trish Elliston take a selfie in NASA's Neutral Buoyancy Laboratory. A large pool of water is visible in the background inside a massive hangar like building. Trish smiles at the camera wearing a light blue top with her hair pulled back. Credit: Trish Elliston
Alt Text: Former NASA SkillBridge intern Trish Elliston takes a selfie in NASA’s Neutral Buoyancy Laboratory. A large pool of water is visible in the background inside a massive hangar-like building. Within the large pool a replica of the International Space Station is seen sitting at depth. Trish smiles at the camera wearing a teal top with her hair pulled back. Credit: Trish Elliston

The Department of Defense’s SkillBridge Program offers service members a glimpse in the civilian workforce, matching military training and skills with civilian careers, up to the last 180 days of military service.

For me personally, after living in the Houston area for a few years and having countless interactions with NASA employees, one common theme that always stuck with me was the level of gratitude and job satisfaction each of them had. The problem for me, as a retiring service member, was the jobs at NASA were few and far between—everyone wants to work at NASA. As my retirement date grew closer, I sent my resume to every company I could think of.

Alt text: Trish wearing an orange dress and her colleagues of the U.S. Coast Guard stand in a group photo in front of a wall with text: “U.S. Department of Homeland Security / United States Coast Guard / Sector Houston-Galveston” and three emblems of each agency respectively
Alt text: Trish wearing an orange dress and her colleagues of the U.S. Coast Guard stand in a group photo in front of a wall with text: “U.S. Department of Homeland Security / United States Coast Guard / Sector Houston-Galveston” and three emblems of each agency respectively. Credit: Trish Elliston

While I received interest from many companies and quite a few job offers, it was one email that changed my whole plan. The SkillBridge Coordinator from JSC, Mr. Albert Meza reached out to me, and told me he received my resume and would be happy to discuss NASA SkillBridge opportunities at the center. In addition to Albert’s full-time job at NASA, he advocates for service members by helping them find SkillBridge opportunities. Albert found an internship for me in the Protective Services Division. After discussing my options with family and friends, and after meeting with the incredible leadership of the Protective Services Division and hearing how well my skills in the military would fit the position, I seized the opportunity and formally accepted the SkillBridge internship at NASA.

During my internship I networked as much as possible and made every effort to learn as much as I could so that I could be better prepared to start my civilian career, whether at NASA or with another company. I worked hard and learned a lot, and when a job opportunity became available, I applied. I submitted my resume knowing there was no guarantee of selection. Later, I interviewed for the position and was offered the job.

After my SkillBridge internship ends, I will be transitioning to a permanent position as a civil servant, and I couldn’t be happier. Few days pass when my mind doesn’t return to something I learned while I was in the military, but I also learn something new every day at NASA, and the people I work with are absolutely some of the best I have ever met. For me, transitioning from the military to the civilian workforce has been an incredible experience.

Alt-text: NASA’s Johnson Space Center SkillBridge Coordinator, Mr. Albert Meza wearing a plaid dress shirt and Trish wearing a blue dress with a lanyard. The two are smiling and pictured left from right in a selfie in front of a brick building.
Alt-text: NASA’s Johnson Space Center SkillBridge Coordinator, Mr. Albert Meza wearing a plaid dress shirt and Trish wearing a blue dress with a lanyard. The two are smiling and pictured left from right in a selfie in front of a brick building. Credit: Trish Elliston

I could not have done it without SkillBridge, and without Albert and the leadership of the Protective Services Division. Making decisions, especially big life decisions like taking off the military uniform, can be stressful. SkillBridge made it easier for me by giving me the opportunity to network, and allowing me to develop a better understanding of my skills outside the military. Most importantly, it gave me the confidence and purpose in my own abilities. SkillBridge interns at NASA are treated like regular employees, and they get assigned actual and meaningful tasks which are critical to NASA missions.

I would encourage any service member to consider SkillBridge as an option when transitioning from the military to the civilian workforce. The SkillBridge program at NASA helped me find my passion and purpose after military retirement.

Trish Elliston/NASA’s Johnson Space Center
Editor: Heidi Pan/NASA Headquarters

Intern Blazes the Trail from Wildfire Data Science to Real-World Experience

Former intern Jenessa Stemke started studying fire science as an outdoor guide in her first year of college. Later, Stemke returned to school for a master’s program in environmental science in hopes of having a future career in fire. Stemke has injuries that made it unsafe for her to participate in the highly physical work environment, so she created her own path to fire science. Over the next few years, Stemke learned by accumulating various pieces of information that she found in her career or in classes.

Alt Text: Jenessa Stemke poses next to a map of potential fire control locations. She is wearing a gray shirt, face mask and headband. Credit: Bryce Foster
Alt Text: Jenessa Stemke poses next to a map of potential fire control locations. She is wearing a gray shirt, face mask and headband. Credit: Bryce Foster

“Somebody wrote the books I read, and somebody taught me about fire without realizing that they were,” Stemke said. “I compiled my knowledge from all these different sources and found people who were willing to take the time to teach me. I did my class research projects on fire behavior and built up my understanding of it from the ecological side.”

After being invited to a NASA Earth Science meeting connecting data scientists and fire stakeholders, Stemke discovered that she could pursue her goal of supporting fire communications while fulfilling her lifelong dream of working for NASA. Her application received and internship offer accepted, she took on her new role as a Wildland Fire Program Intern for NASA, where she combined her enthusiasm for fire ecology and appreciation for satellite imagery.

Alt Text: An 11-year-old Jenessa stands smiling next to former NASA astronaut Richard Searfoss at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center. Searfoss stands smiling beside Jenessa in his iconic blue astronaut flight suit. Credit: Delilah Stemke
Alt Text: An 11-year-old Jenessa stands smiling next to former NASA astronaut Richard Searfoss at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center. Searfoss stands smiling beside Jenessa in his iconic blue astronaut flight suit. Credit: Delilah Stemke

This is where she came up with the idea to interview individuals in fire science-related spaces to create a list of difficulties and opportunities in fire science while considering the perspectives of policies, funding, and societal influences.

“I was surprised to learn that only 10% of people in fire at NASA or The Tactical Fire Remote Sensing Advisory Committee (TFRSAC) had hands-on fire experience, so it became my mission to help bridge the fire and data science communities to inform meaningful change,” Stemke said.

Stemke credits NASA and her mentors, David Green, Jessica McCarthy, and Joanne Hall as key factors in her ability to work in this field. She is grateful for her experience at NASA and cites the culture drives “innovation, collaboration and a forward-thinking solution-oriented approach, keeping in mind past successes or lessons learned,” Stemke stated.

Alt Text: A female intern wearing a blue jacket and cream pants standing smiling next to the NASA Research Park sign at NASA Ames Research Center. Behind her is a statue of the retired space shuttle on a stand surrounded by trees and blue sky. Credit: Emily Gelbart
Alt Text: A female intern wearing a blue jacket and cream pants standing smiling next to the NASA Research Park sign at NASA Ames Research Center. Behind her is a statue of the retired space shuttle on a stand surrounded by trees and blue sky. Credit: Emily Gelbart

“At NASA, I was more than tolerated. I was respected, welcomed, and appreciated. As an individual with a disability, I experience the world differently than others, and it rarely feels safe to discuss, except with people who can relate,” Stemke said.

Gracie Glover/NASA Headquarters