The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has officially opened applications for the NASA EarthRISE Developers Academy Fall 2026 cohort, an exciting professional development and applied research opportunity designed to prepare the next generation of Earth observation and geospatial technology leaders.
The EarthRISE Developers Academy offers participants the opportunity to work on real-world interdisciplinary projects using NASA Earth observation data to solve pressing global challenges. Through collaborative learning, applied research, networking, and mentorship, the Academy equips participants with practical experience in Earth science applications, GIS, remote sensing, and decision-support technologies.
The Fall 2026 term will run from September 14 to November 20, 2026, and applications are currently open until June 26, 2026.
About NASA EarthRISE Developers Academy
NASA EarthRISE Developers Academy is a workforce development initiative led by NASA Langley Research Center. Building on more than 25 years of workforce development expertise, the program immerses participants in short-term applied science projects that use NASA data and technologies to address real-world environmental and societal issues.
The Academy focuses on developing innovative applied science solutions that help organizations make more effective and efficient decisions. Participants collaborate with state, local, tribal, territorial, and private-sector partners while gaining hands-on experience in using Earth observation technologies for practical applications.
The program also helps bridge Earth science with the future of space exploration by preparing participants with interdisciplinary technical and professional skills relevant to the rapidly growing geospatial and Earth observation workforce.
Key Program Details
Application Deadline
June 26, 2026
Program Dates
September 14 – November 20, 2026
Program Format
- Virtual and agency-wide opportunities available
- Collaborative interdisciplinary team projects
- Short-term applied research experience
NASA Earth Action Thematic Areas
Projects within the EarthRISE Developers Academy typically focus on one or more of NASA’s Earth Action thematic priorities, including:
- Agriculture
- Disasters
- Ecological Conservation
- Energy & Infrastructure
- Health & Air Quality
- Water Resources
- Wildland Fires
These thematic areas are designed to address major environmental and societal challenges through data-driven innovation and Earth observation technologies.
Who Should Apply?
NASA encourages applications from individuals with interdisciplinary backgrounds and varying levels of professional experience. The program welcomes:
- Currently enrolled students
- Recent graduates
- Early-career professionals
- Transitioning career professionals
Applicants with experience in the following areas are particularly encouraged to apply:
- Earth Science
- Environmental Science
- Planetary Science
- Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
- Remote Sensing
- Computer Science
- Data Analytics
- Earth Observation Applications
Successful participants are typically:
- Open-minded
- Collaborative
- Adaptable
- Eager to learn
- Interested in interdisciplinary problem-solving
What Participants Will Do
Participants in the EarthRISE Developers Academy work in interdisciplinary teams of approximately four to five members in a fast-paced collaborative environment.
Each team works on an applied research project designed to help partner organizations use NASA Earth observation data to improve workflows, planning, and management decisions.
Program activities typically include:
1. Literature Review and Research
Participants conduct reviews on:
- Relevant scientific methodologies
- NASA remote sensing datasets
- Existing applications and research approaches
- Scope and background of project topics
2. GIS and Remote Sensing Applications
Participants use:
- GIS technologies
- Satellite imagery
- NASA Earth observation datasets
- Remote sensing tools
to create practical application solutions for partner organizations.
3. Team Collaboration
Participants engage in:
- Interdisciplinary teamwork
- Applied problem-solving
- Communication and project coordination
- Collaborative research development
4. Final Deliverables
At the end of the program, teams complete:
- A final presentation for multiple audiences
- A technical report
- Project end products and application solutions
Mentorship and Guidance
Each project team receives support from:
- Project coordinators
- Science advisors
- Professional mentors
- NASA Langley Research Center’s EarthRISE Office
This mentorship structure allows participants to gain exposure to real-world scientific workflows and professional collaboration environments.
Benefits of Joining the NASA EarthRISE Developers Academy
The Academy offers extensive personal, technical, and professional development opportunities.
Participants can expect to strengthen skills in:
Technical Skills
- GIS analysis
- Remote sensing
- Earth observation applications
- Data-driven research
- Scientific communication
Professional Skills
- Presentation and public speaking
- Team collaboration
- Networking
- Technical writing
- Project development
Career Development
Participants also gain:
- Exposure to NASA projects and scientists
- Experience working with partner organizations
- Interdisciplinary research experience
- Insight into the geospatial workforce
- Professional networking opportunities
The Academy also includes personality typing exercises, team-building experiences, and interactions with experts working in Earth science and applied technology sectors.
Why This Opportunity Matters
As global challenges related to climate, disasters, water resources, air quality, and ecological conservation continue to grow, there is increasing demand for professionals who can apply Earth observation data to real-world decision-making.
NASA EarthRISE Developers Academy provides participants with a rare opportunity to:
- Work directly with NASA-related projects
- Gain applied research experience
- Build geospatial and Earth observation expertise
- Develop interdisciplinary collaboration skills
- Prepare for careers in the evolving Earth science and space technology sectors
The program is especially valuable for individuals interested in careers involving:
- Climate and environmental science
- Geospatial technology
- Space applications
- Sustainability and resilience
- Remote sensing and satellite data analysis
How to Apply
Interested applicants should carefully follow these steps:
Step 1: Read the Application Guide
Review the complete application guide and eligibility requirements carefully.
Step 2: Review Logistics and Project Information
Explore available projects and program logistics. NASA notes that project information may continue to be updated during the application period.
Step 3: Access the Application Portal
Use the official EarthRISE Developers Academy Application Portal to begin and submit your application.
Step 4: Prepare Supporting Materials
Ensure all required application materials are completed and submitted before the deadline.
Official NASA Resources
Applicants are encouraged to consult the official NASA EarthRISE pages for:
- Application guidelines
- Eligibility details
- Project descriptions
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Program logistics
For additional inquiries, applicants may contact the NASA Langley EarthRISE Office directly through the official contact provided on the NASA website.
Final Thoughts
The NASA EarthRISE Developers Academy Fall 2026 represents an exceptional opportunity for students, researchers, and early-career professionals to gain hands-on experience working with NASA Earth observation data and applied science solutions.
Through interdisciplinary collaboration, mentorship, and real-world research projects, participants can build valuable technical and professional skills while contributing to solutions for major global environmental challenges.
For anyone interested in Earth science, GIS, remote sensing, environmental applications, or space-related innovation, this program offers a powerful pathway into the future of the geospatial and Earth observation workforce.
Application Deadline: June 26, 2026
Program Dates: September 14 – November 20, 2026
Learn More and Apply
Interested applicants can apply through the official application portal HERE.
Click HERE to learn more about the NASA EarthRISE Developers Academy Fall 2026.
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