2026 Space Policy Graduate Intern

The Aerospace Corporation•Arlington, VA

60d•Onsite

About The Position

The Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nation's space programs, solving the hardest problems and providing unmatched technical expertise. As the operator of a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we are broadly engaged across all aspects of space- delivering innovative solutions that span satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil and commercial customers. When you join our team, you'll be part of a special collection of problem solvers, thought leaders, and innovators. Join us and take your place in space. The Aerospace Corporation's Center for Space Policy and Strategy (CSPS) is seeking Graduate Student Interns interested in space policy or strategic foresight for a paid internship opportunity. This intern position is for three full-time, limited-term appointments during the Summer of 2026. The selection process is highly competitive and not all available positions may be filled. Selection and announcements will be on a rolling basis before the end of February 2026. This position is full time on-site in our Crystal City, VA location. With your application, please provide a cover letter attached to your resume and discuss the following: Short statement of interest for why you would like to work for the Center for Space Policy and Strategy. Are you a space enthusiast, and if so, how have you pursued that passion in your personal, professional, or academic life? What do you envision as the next big policy or strategic issue in space? What are your most curious or transformational ideas about the future of space? Join CSPS as it brings Aerospace's deep technical expertise to bear shaping the future of space policy across civil, commercial, and national security issues.

Requirements

Strong written and oral communication skills
Must work well in a team environment
Must possess strong organizational, time management and project management skills
Demonstrate flexibility and ability to adapt to changing organizational needs
Interpersonal skills to coordinate efforts and work with other internal and external organizations
Demonstrate behavior that is consistent with the company's values of Dedication to Mission Success, Technical Excellence, Commitment to Our People, Objectivity and Integrity, and Innovation
Currently enrolled full time at an accredited college/university degree program pursuing a Master's or PhD in a space- and/or national security-related technology, strategy, or policy field.
Availability to work full-time for a minimum of 10 weeks outside of university term and ability to return to a degree program full-time after completion of the internship.
Previous internship with The Aerospace Corporation
Experience with Microsoft Office applications (Word, PowerPoint and Excel)
Minimum GPA 3.0
Must be able to obtain and maintain a US Government Security Clearance, US Citizenship Required
Knowledge and interest in space policy or Strategic Foresight
Experience with writing and publishing
Transcripts required for this position

Nice To Haves

GPA 3.5 or higher
Ability to stage public/virtual events and roundtables on pressing issues of space policy
Policy type experience or coursework
Training or expertise in foresight methodologies such as emerging trends analysis, horizon scanning, scenario development, and strategy formulation.

Responsibilities

Write, edit, and publish with CSPS, including the potential to serve as a co-author on published work together with a CSPS staff member.
Conduct strategy and policy research using advanced qualitative and quantitative methodologies as part of an interdisciplinary team, working with highly regarded scholars and practitioners
Make complicated technical, economic, and policy concepts accessible for a national decision-making audience
Help CSPS stage public/virtual events and roundtables on pressing issues of space policy
Work closely with senior management and staff, and other members of the space policy community
Training and extensive mentorship will be provided.

Benefits

Comprehensive health care and wellness plans
Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation
Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options
401(k) Plan - Employees receive a total company-paid benefit of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on years of service and matching contributions; employees are immediately eligible and vested in the plan upon hire
Flexible spending accounts
Variable pay program for exceptional contributions
Relocation assistance
Professional growth and development programs to help advance your career
Education assistance programs
A work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect