LPI Summer Internship 2026 | Fully Funded Internship in the USA

Are you a student who is interested in the secrets of the space and planetary science? LPI Summer Internship 2026 in the United States is one of the most impressive initiatives that provide undergraduates with the chance to collaborate with NASA scientists and researchers. This is a highly regarded 10-week fully funded internship that offers practical experience in planetary science, geology, astrobiology and other areas. This program is hosted in the proximity of NASA Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas and allows the participants to work on the real research, experience professional values and network with the experts who define the future of space exploration.

Key Highlights

Detailed Description

LPI Summer Internship 2026 is a globally recognized research program that aims at inspiring the future generation of planetary scientists. The selected interns will partner with the mentors of the Lunar and Planetary Institute or Johnson Space Center of NASA in doing innovative research projects in spheres like planetary geology, remote sensing, impact cratering, lunar science, and astrobiology.

During the 10-week program (June 1 – August 7, 2026), the interns will experience lectures, workshops, and networking, as well as have the research and professional development experience. The program is completed with the presentation of the research findings of each intern.

Scholarship/Program Benefits

This will be a fully-financed program that helps remove the barrier of financial aspects so that the interns concentrate on their research and development. The most notable financial and professional advantages are:

• Comprehensive Financial Support: Up to $13,351 of total financial support in order to finance all the period of the internship. This is to cover the stipend, accommodation and return travel cost.
• Paid Housing: The cost of accommodation is paid directly to the housing vendor and it is so easy to move and stay in Houston.
• NASA-Affiliated Research: Direct cooperation with the global scientists at the LPI and NASA Johnson Space Center.
• LPSC Travel Grant: Interns who successfully pass the program and first author on an accepted abstract of the following Lunar and Planetary Science Conference (LPSC) may be given up to $1,500 to assist with travel to the conference.
• Networking and Mentorship: Build up quality and lasting relations with top researchers and future colleagues in the community of space scientists.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the LPI Summer Intern Program 2026, applicants must:

• Be undergraduate students (with at least 50 semester hours completed by June 2026).
• Preferably major in physical or natural sciences, engineering, computer science, or mathematics.
• Have a strong academic record and interest in planetary or space sciences.
• Be proficient in English. (International applicants may need to provide TOEFL/IELTS or an English-proficiency letter.)
• Be citizens of eligible countries (students from U.S. State Department–designated restricted countries are not eligible).

Required Documents

• Completed online application form
• Official transcripts (English or translated copy)
• Two to three letters of recommendation
• Proof of English proficiency (for international applicants)
• Personal statement describing research interests and goals

Application Process

1. Go to the LPI Internship official site.
2. Register a profile and complete the online application form.
3. Upload transcripts and give recommender contact information.
4. Prepare a powerful research motivation statement.
5. Check your application prior to submitting it – incomplete applications will not be taken.
6. Turn in all papers by the deadline: December 12, 2025 (11:59 p.m. CST).
7. The shortlisted candidates will be informed by March 2026.

Deadline

Application Deadline: December 12, 2025
Program Dates: June 1 – August 7, 2026
Location: Houston, Texas, USA

How to Apply

Apply online through the official LPI website using the link below:

FAQs

1. Is the LPI Internship fully funded?
Yes, it provides a stipend, housing, and travel assistance for selected interns, making it a fully funded opportunity.

2. Can international students apply?
Yes, the program welcomes international applicants except from restricted countries listed by the U.S. State Department.

3. What’s the duration of the program?
The internship will be completed in 10 weeks, June 1 to August 7, 2026.

4. Do I need IELTS or TOEFL to apply?
That is only when English is not your native language. You may also provide a university letter showing that you understand English.

5. What type of research will I do?
You will conduct projects (under expert guidance) in the area of planetary science, geology, remote sensing and astrobiology.

5. When will results be announced?
The selected candidates will be informed through email by March 2026.