The Lunar and Planetary Institute (LPI), based in Houston, Texas, has announced its Summer Internship Program for 2027, offering undergraduate students an opportunity to gain hands-on research experience in planetary science and space exploration. The program will take place from June 7 to August 13, 2027, at the Lunar and Planetary Institute or NASA’s Johnson Space Center.
The fully funded internship is designed to introduce students to scientific research while allowing them to work alongside experienced researchers and scientists in the fields of lunar and planetary science.
Program Highlights
Host Institution: Lunar and Planetary Institute (LPI) / NASA’s Johnson Space Center
Location: Houston, Texas, USA
Program Type: Summer Research Internship
Duration: June 7 – August 13, 2027
Funding: Fully funded
Application Deadline: December 14, 2026
Financial Benefits
Selected interns will receive financial support covering major expenses associated with participating in the program, including:
A stipend for the internship period
Round-trip travel expenses
Accommodation support
Assistance with daily living expenses
Accommodation expenses will be paid directly to the housing provider and deducted from the total financial support.
Eligibility Criteria
The program is open to undergraduate students currently enrolled at accredited colleges or universities.
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
Be enrolled in an undergraduate degree program at an accredited institution.
Have completed at least 50 semester credit hours or the equivalent.
Remain enrolled as an undergraduate student during the semester preceding the internship.
Demonstrate an interest in scientific research and planetary science.
Students from STEM disciplines, including physics, natural sciences, engineering, computer science, and mathematics, are particularly encouraged to apply. However, students from other academic backgrounds may also be considered.
International students are eligible to apply, subject to the program's country-specific eligibility restrictions.
Selection Process
Applicants will be evaluated based on their academic achievements, research interests, career objectives, and compatibility with available research projects. Selected candidates will have the opportunity to participate in research activities under the guidance of experienced scientists.
Application Deadline and How to Apply
The application period opened on October 19, 2026. Interested and eligible students must submit their applications through the official Lunar and Planetary Institute website.
Application Deadline: December 14, 2026
The selection results are expected to be announced in March 2027.
Official Application Website: https://www.lpi.usra.edu/intern/
