The Student Airborne Research Program (SARP) is an eight-week summer internship program for rising-senior undergraduates. With access to one or more NASA Airborne Science Program flying science laboratories, students acquire hands-on research experience in all aspects of a scientific campaign.

Participants will be awarded a stipend as well as funding to cover their travel. Housing and transportation will also be provided during the eight-week program.

The NASA Airborne Science Program maintains a fleet of aircraft used for studying Earth system processes, calibration/validation of space-borne observations, and prototyping instruments for possible satellite missions. SARP participants assist in the operation of instruments onboard one of these aircraft to sample atmospheric gases and/or to image land and water surfaces in multiple spectral bands.

Research areas include atmospheric chemistry, air quality, forest ecology, and ocean biology. Along with airborne data collection, students will participate in taking measurements at field sites. The program culminates with students presenting results of their research conclusions.

• Applicants must have a strong academic background in mathematics, engineering, or any of the physical, chemical, or biological sciences and an interest in the study of the Earth system. We especially encourage applications from students majoring in Earth, environmental, or atmospheric sciences and related disciplines.
• Applicants must be enrolled full-time at an accredited four-year US college or university.
• Strong preference in admissions will be given to current juniors (students who will be rising seniors during the summer they participate in SARP).
• Graduate students are not eligible for SARP. Students from academic institutions that have limited research opportunities are strongly encouraged to apply.
• Applicants must be US citizens.