NASA STEM Stars: NASA Internships | Summary and Q&A

TL;DR

Interns share their experiences working remotely on the James Webb Space Telescope project and discuss their backgrounds and interests in STEM.

Key Insights

• 🌍 The interns share their experiences as part of the NASA intern program and how the COVID-19 pandemic affected their internships, emphasizing the resilience and adaptability needed in their roles.
• 🤩 Passion, enthusiasm, and a willingness to learn are key qualities sought by NASA in internship applicants.
• 🧍 Diverse experiences, both within and outside the STEM field, can make an applicant stand out and bring a unique perspective to NASA projects.
• 📽️ The James Webb Space Telescope is a complex and innovative project that requires a combination of engineering and scientific expertise.

Transcript

stem fans are you ready let's hear it for the world-class nasa stem stars team from nasa centers across the country we present dakota tyler lindsey jacobson jillian reading andrew olson and tina back [Applause] hello and welcome to this week's nasa stem stars boy do we have a great show prepared for you today we have a huge awesome panel of interns... Read More

Questions & Answers

Q: What projects are the interns working on with the James Webb Space Telescope?

The interns are involved in projects focusing on risk management, exoplanet research, and star formation. They are contributing to various aspects of the James Webb Space Telescope mission, such as compiling data, studying the forefront of star formation, and investigating exoplanet atmospheres.

Q: What skills and experiences should applicants have for NASA internships?

NASA is looking for applicants with a passion for STEM, a willingness to learn, and a diverse range of skills and experiences. It is important to demonstrate enthusiasm, curiosity, and involvement in STEM-related activities, such as joining clubs, conducting research, and participating in alternative service programs.

Q: What advice do the interns have for standing out among the applicant pool?

The interns recommend showcasing your passion for STEM and your specific interests within the field. They suggest getting involved in clubs or activities related to your interests and demonstrating a willingness to learn and try new things. Being distinct and having a unique niche can make your application more competitive.

Q: What is the structure and design of the James Webb Space Telescope?

The telescope features a hexagon structure with a large diameter to detect longer wavelengths of infrared light. It has a sunshield to block interference from external light sources, as infrared signals are sensitive to heat. The telescope can fold up for launch and deployment in space, enabling it to fit within the dimensions of the rocket.

Q: Are there opportunities at NASA for individuals with a background in mining engineering?

Yes, NASA offers various opportunities for individuals with different engineering backgrounds. While specific projects related to mining engineering may not be available, the skills and problem-solving abilities gained from studying mining engineering can be applied to other areas within NASA.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• NASA STEM Stars introduces interns working on the James Webb Space Telescope project, highlighting their experiences and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on their internships.

• Interns discuss their focus areas, such as risk management, exoplanet research, and star formation, and how the James Webb Space Telescope will contribute to these fields.

• Interns emphasize the importance of passion, curiosity, and involvement in STEM-related activities to stand out in the application process.

• Interns discuss their journey to NASA, including experiences in clubs, research projects, and alternative service programs.