Prime DC Last reviewed March 2026

NASA

USA's federal agency responsible for the civil space program, aeronautics research, and space exploration.

Overview

NASA conducts scientific research to understand Earth and space, develops and tests new aerospace technologies, and leads human space exploration missions. The organization operates advanced orbital platforms and is currently advancing plans for lunar exploration and Mars missions. Its work encompasses deep-space navigation, high-resolution Earth observation, and the development of next-generation launch systems.

Student Insights

NASA has 10 centers

JPL, JSC, KSC, GSFC, and more each has different focus areas. Research which center aligns with your interests.

Not just astronauts

NASA hires engineers, scientists, IT specialists, communicators, and project managers. A role for almost every STEM discipline.

AI Outlook

Leading

NASA is a global leader in AI for space exploration, applying ML to Mars rover autonomy, Earth science, and air traffic management.

  • Mars rover autonomous navigation (AutoNav)
  • AI-powered Earth observation data processing
  • ML for air traffic management optimization
  • Autonomous spacecraft operations

Student Hiring

NASA Pathways & OSSI Internships Entry-Level Friendly
Application Tip: Apply through OSSI (intern.nasa.gov). Applications open Nov-Feb for summer. US citizenship required.

Typical Roles

Engineering InternComputer Science InternScience InternPathways Program

Notable Programs

  • Artemis Program
  • James Webb Space Telescope
  • Mars Sample Return
  • Dragonfly
  • X-59 QueSST

Career Connections

AeroEd career pathways relevant to NASA.