Are you ready to take your first step into space research? The 2026 LPI Summer Internship in the USA is your chance to gain hands-on experience in planetary science while working alongside top scientists at NASA’s Johnson Space Center and the Lunar and Planetary Institute (LPI) in Houston, Texas. This 10-week fully funded internship program offers undergraduate students from around the world the opportunity to engage in real scientific research, explore cutting-edge technologies, and prepare for a future in space exploration.
Details About the 2026 LPI Summer Internship
- Host Country: United States
- Location: Lunar and Planetary Institute (LPI) or NASA Johnson Space Center, Houston, Texas
- Internship Duration: 10 weeks (June 1 – August 7, 2026)
- Financial Coverage: Fully Funded
- Application Deadline: December 12, 2025
This prestigious internship program allows students to collaborate with NASA researchers and LPI experts while exploring topics related to planetary formation, astrobiology, and space missions.
Financial Benefits
The LPI Summer Internship 2026 is a fully funded opportunity that includes:
- $13,351 in total financial support, covering:
- Round-trip airfare
- Stipend for living expenses
- Housing (paid directly to vendors)
- Additional bonus allowance of $1,500 for interns who successfully complete the program
This generous funding ensures students can fully focus on their research and learning experience in the U.S.
Preferred Fields of Study
While students from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply, preference will be given to those majoring in:
- Physical Sciences
- Natural Sciences
- Engineering
- Computer Science
- Mathematics
These disciplines align closely with the LPI’s mission to advance scientific understanding of the solar system.
Eligibility Criteria
The LPI Internship 2026 welcomes applications from both U.S. and international students who meet the following criteria:
- Must be an undergraduate student with at least 50 semester hours of credit completed
- Open to all nationalities
- No IELTS required (English proficiency can be verified through alternate documentation)
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Application Requirements
Applicants must prepare the following documents before applying:
- Completed online application form
- Two to three recommendation letters
- Official academic transcripts
- Proof of English proficiency (submit any one):
- TOEFL or IELTS score
- Letter from your university confirming English language ability
Why Choose the LPI Summer Internship?
The LPI program is not just an internship — it’s a launchpad for your scientific career. Participants gain:
- Access to NASA research facilities
- Mentorship from world-class planetary scientists
- Networking opportunities with space professionals
- A deep understanding of space exploration and research methodologies
This experience helps aspiring scientists, engineers, and researchers prepare for graduate studies or professional roles in the space industry.
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How to Apply for the LPI Summer Internship 2026
Applications must be submitted online through the official portal. Paper submissions will not be accepted.
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