LPI Summer Internship Planetary Science Program

The LPI Summer Internship 2027 in the USA is a prestigious, fully funded 10-week research opportunity designed for undergraduate students interested in planetary science and space exploration. Hosted by the Lunar and Planetary Institute (LPI) in collaboration with NASA Johnson Space Center, this program allows students to engage in hands‑on research alongside leading space scientists in Houston, Texas.

Selected interns conduct research projects, attend specialized scientific seminars, participate in professional development workshops, and present their final research findings at the end of the term. The internship provides financial support exceeding $13,000, covering housing, travel, and daily living expenses to ensure an accessible experience for top academic talent worldwide.

Program Information

Program Title LPI Summer Internship Program 2027

Designation Undergraduate Research Intern

Host Organization Lunar and Planetary Institute (LPI) & NASA Johnson Space Center

Program Location Houston, Texas, United States

Duration 10 Weeks (June 7, 2027 - August 13, 2027)

Financial Support At least $13,639 stipend package (includes living, travel, and housing assistance)

Final date to receive applications December 14, 2026 (11:59 PM U.S. Central Time)

Participants selected for the program serve as Undergraduate Research Interns
. Candidates work directly under the mentorship of scientific staff members at the Lunar and Planetary Institute or the NASA Johnson Space Center, gaining title-level experience in planetary research and space mission science.

The LPI Summer Internship is a fully funded program offering comprehensive financial backing for accepted students:

• Financial Package: A total award of at least $13,639 for the 10-week duration.
• Accommodation Support: Housing expenses are paid directly to the accommodation provider and managed within the financial package.
• Travel and Living Allowance: Financial assistance provided to assist with round-trip travel to Houston and daily living costs.
• Professional Mentorship: Direct collaborative research experience with established planetary scientists.
• Career Enhancement: Access to scientific lectures, professional development training, and presentation experience.

The program accommodates undergraduate students across diverse scientific and technical fields relevant to planetary science and solar system exploration, including:

• Planetary Science
• Astronomy and Astrophysics
• Physics and Space Physics
• Earth Sciences and Geosciences
• Geology
• Computer Science and Data Science
• Mathematics and Natural Sciences

The internship is located in Houston, Texas, USA
. Primary research activities take place at the facilities of the Lunar and Planetary Institute (LPI) and the nearby NASA Johnson Space Center
.

Applicants must meet the following eligibility conditions at the time of application:

• Academic Status: Must be currently enrolled in an undergraduate Bachelor's degree program.
• Completed Credits: Must have completed a minimum of 50 semester credit hours (or equivalent) prior to the start of the program.
• Enrollment Status: Must remain enrolled in an undergraduate program during the semester immediately preceding the internship.
• Academic Background: Must major in a field relevant to planetary science, physical sciences, engineering, or mathematics.
• Performance & Interest: Demonstrate strong academic achievement and a commitment to scientific research and space exploration.
• Program Availability: Must be available for full‑time participation in Houston for the entire 10‑week period (June 7 to August 13, 2027).

• Official undergraduate academic transcripts in English.
• Two or three official letters of recommendation.
• Proof of English language proficiency (if required).
• Responses to required essay questions detailing research goals and interest in planetary science.