Summer is the perfect season to launch your curiosity into orbit, and NASA is offering a universe of ways to dive in, explore, and create. Whether you prefer stargazing from your backyard, building code and hardware, or daydreaming about a future career in aerospace, there’s something for everyone. Here are six opportunities to take your interests to the next level with NASA this summer.
1. The Stardance Challenge – Code, Build, and Innovate
From June 1 to September 30, students aged 13–18 can flex their creativity in the online Stardance Challenge, a partnership between NASA and the non-profit Hack Club. This challenge invites you to work with real NASA mission data from programs like Artemis and the James Webb Space Telescope. You can create code, apps, electronics, circuit boards, models, or simulations – anything that showcases your skills. Hack Club offers peer and expert reviews, prizes, and opportunities to highlight your work, while NASA provides public datasets, mission materials, multimedia, and virtual sessions with subject matter experts. Learn more about the Stardance Challenge and start brainstorming. For details, visit the Hack Club: Stardance Challenge website to explore project options and RSVP.
2. Discover NASA Careers Beyond Astronauts
Think NASA is only for astronauts and rocket scientists? Think again. It takes a wide range of professionals – from graphic designers to aircraft mechanics – to bring the nation’s aerospace goals to life. Summer is a great time to discover how your unique skills and interests could make a difference at NASA. Through online events and resources, you can connect directly with NASA experts and get a behind‑the‑scenes look at real STEM career paths. These virtual sessions spark curiosity and allow you to ask questions about daily work, education requirements, and job satisfaction. Jump to NASA career insights and see where you might fit.
3. NASA’s Career Technical Education Day – Robotics and AI
On Tuesday, June 2, NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center hosts Career Technical Education (CTE) Day, focusing on robotics, artificial intelligence, autonomous systems, and the skilled technical careers that keep missions running. This virtual event is ideal for students interested in hands‑on, technical roles. You’ll hear from experts, learn about emerging technologies, and explore how CTE pathways lead to jobs at NASA. Registration is required by May 26. Register for CTE Day and prepare to dive into the future of space technology.
4. Virtual Career Connection – Aviation Technology and Maintenance
On Thursday, June 11, join the Virtual Career Connection: Aviation Technology and Maintenance event. This session introduces you to aircraft mechanics and technicians who support NASA’s flight programs. You’ll learn about the educational pathways, day‑to‑day responsibilities, and career opportunities in aviation technology. It’s perfect for anyone passionate about flight and hands‑on problem‑solving. Registration closes June 2. Sign up for the Aviation Career event and take off toward a rewarding career.
5. Explore the Universe of NASA STEM Resources
Beyond these events, NASA’s Next Gen STEM for Careers web page is a treasure trove of videos, articles, and interactive tools that showcase the variety of jobs at NASA. Whether you’re interested in engineering, communications, or project management, you’ll find stories from real employees and guides on how to pursue similar paths. This resource is available year‑round and can help you connect classroom learning to real‑world NASA challenges. Check out Next Gen STEM and start planning your future.
6. Get Hands‑On with NASA Mission Data
For the Stardance Challenge, participants gain access to publicly available datasets from missions like Artemis and the James Webb Space Telescope. You can also attend virtual sessions with subject matter experts who share insights on space science, engineering, and careers. This is a rare chance to work with authentic space data and get feedback from professionals. Use this opportunity to build a portfolio piece that stands out. Explore mission datasets and see how your project can contribute to NASA’s educational goals.
This summer, NASA invites you to level up your STEM skills, whether through coding, career exploration, or hands‑on projects. Each activity offers a unique window into the work that powers space exploration. Don’t miss these chances to connect with experts, build cool things, and imagine your future at NASA. Start your journey today – the universe is waiting.