Funding

Salary

Program dates

Jun 1, 2026 – Jul 31, 2026

Internship•USA · Baltimore

Space Astronomy Summer Program (SASP)

Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI)

Application Deadline

Closed · January 31, 2026

Reopens ~Jan 2027

Official Page

The Space Astronomy Summer Program (SASP) is run by the Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI) in Baltimore, Maryland — the science operations centre for the Hubble and James Webb space telescopes. Each summer about a dozen college students work one-on-one with STScI researchers and staff on projects in space-based astronomy, engineering, or public outreach. Interns carry out original research, attend a lecture series, and present their results. The program runs roughly nine weeks (1 June to 31 July in 2026).

Benefits & funding

  • Weekly stipend of US$880, paid over roughly nine weeks.
  • Housing assistance: STScI subsidises roughly one third of coordinated housing; the remaining cost is deducted from the intern’s bi-weekly paychecks.
  • Round-trip travel to and from Baltimore is arranged and covered by STScI, including transport between your preferred airport and Baltimore.
  • One-on-one mentorship with STScI staff, a summer lecture series, and access to a leading astronomical research institute.
  • Visa sponsorship assistance for non-U.S. citizens who need a work visa.

Eligibility

  • College undergraduates from the U.S. and other countries, primarily between their junior and senior years (upper-division). Exceptional students in earlier years may be considered on an individual basis.
  • Both U.S. and non-U.S. citizens are welcome; there is no nationality restriction.
  • Strong interest in space-based astronomy, engineering, or public outreach.
  • Non-U.S. citizens will need a work visa; STScI assists with obtaining one.

Can you apply?

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  • Education required

    Bachelor Enrolled

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Application process

  1. 1
    Prepare your application on the STScI SlideRoom portal linked from the Application Information page.
  2. 2
    Submit a full application before the deadline (31 January for the 2026 cycle).
  3. 3
    Selection takes about six weeks; acceptance letters are sent in early March.
  4. 4
    Accepted candidates have about five business days to accept or decline; HR then coordinates the mentor match, travel, and any visa.

Program timeline

  1. Application deadline (2026 cycle)

    Jan 31, 2026

  2. Acceptance letters sent

    Early March 2026

  3. Program starts

    Jun 1, 2026

  4. Program ends

    Jul 31, 2026