Central High School student Brayden Sanderson has been selected to participate in the highly competitive NASA STEM Enhancement in Earth and Space Science (SEES) Summer Internship at the University of Texas at Austin’s Center for Space Research.
The nationally recognized program, funded by NASA, provides high school students with the opportunity to work alongside scientists and engineers on authentic research projects focused on Earth and space science. Participants use data collected from NASA Earth-observing satellites, analyze imagery from the International Space Station, investigate the effects of microgravity, and explore topics ranging from planetary habitats to climate and environmental research.
Sanderson earned a spot in the program through a competitive selection process. This year, more than 3,000 students applied for just 118 on-site internship positions.
The SEES internship is a collaborative effort between NASA and the University of Texas at Austin’s Center for Space Research. Before arriving on campus, students work remotely with project scientists, complete coursework in Earth and space science, and participate in a Python coding course. Students also attend presentations from NASA subject matter experts as part of the SEES Speaker Series.
During the two-week on-site experience in Austin, interns will conduct hands-on activities, participate in field investigations, collaborate with NASA-funded scientists and engineers, and contribute to research connected to ongoing NASA missions.
“Programs like SEES help inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators,” said organizers. “Students gain valuable experience working with the same tools, data, and research methods used by professionals in the aerospace industry.”
NASA’s research initiatives span a wide range of disciplines, from studying Earth’s atmosphere, oceans, and land surfaces to exploring the Moon, Mars, asteroids, and deep space. The SEES program helps connect students with these real-world scientific challenges while preparing them for future careers in STEM fields.
Sanderson and fellow interns will gather in Austin beginning July 5, where they will conduct research, tour facilities, network with students from across the country, and receive mentorship from experts representing NASA, industry, and academia.
Central High School and the Rapid City Area Schools community congratulate Sanderson on this outstanding achievement and wish him success as he represents Rapid City in this prestigious national program.