Applications are now open for the STScI Space Astronomy Summer Program (SASP) 2026 in the United States πΊπΈ.
Each year, the Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI) invites outstanding undergraduate and early graduate students from around the world to its 9-week fully funded summer internship in Baltimore, Maryland.
Interns work with scientists and engineers who support missions like the Hubble Space Telescope and James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) β making this one of the most prestigious astronomy internships globally.
π Program Overview
β’ Host Country: USA
β’ Host Institute: Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI)
β’ Location: Baltimore, Maryland
β’ Internship Type: Space Astronomy Summer Program (SASP)
β’ Duration: 9 Weeks
β’ Program Dates: June β July 2026
β’ Funding: Fully Funded
β’ Deadline: 23 January 2026
π° Financial Benefits
The STScI SASP Program covers:
β Weekly Stipend
β Round-trip International Airfare
β Accommodation
β Work Visa Support (for international students)
β Access to Laptop & Computer Resources
β Local Transportation (Metro access for nearby cities like DC, NYC & Philadelphia)
π Internship Focus Areas
Participants may work in:
β’ Data Reduction & Interpretation
β’ Software Development
β’ Software Engineering
β’ Instrument Calibration & Support
β’ Scientific Writing
β’ Public Outreach
β’ Space-based Astronomy
β’ Engineering Projects
π Why You Should Apply
β Work with scientists supporting Hubble & JWST
β Build real research & technical experience
β Strengthen your CV for MSc/PhD & NASA-related careers
β International exposure in U.S. research labs
β Fully funded β no financial burden
π©βπ Who Can Apply?
You are eligible if you:
β’ Are from any country
β’ Are an Undergraduate or early Graduate student
β’ Have a strong interest in astronomy, engineering, data science, or outreach
β’ Can commit fully to the 9-week program
π Required Documents
β’ Online Application Form
β’ Personal Essay
β’ Letters of Recommendation
π οΈ How to Apply for the STScI SASP Summer Program 2026
Applicants must apply online via the official STScI website.
π Official Application Page:
π https://www.stsci.edu/opportunities/space-astronomy-summer-program
π Deadline: 23 January 2026
π Final Thoughts
If you dream of working with space telescopes, scientific data, and elite researchers β this is your chance. The STScI SASP Internship can open doors to NASA, PhD programs, and global research careers.
