About the opportunity
Texas Aerospace Scholars (TAS), formerly known as High School Aerospace Scholars, is a unique educational program designed to help Texas high school students explore STEM concepts and discover how their interests connect to real-world NASA work. The program is divided into two main tracks: the Junior Experience and the Senior Experience. Both tracks involve a year-long commitment where students engage directly with NASA scientists and engineers. Participants build transferable skills in areas such as coding, computer-aided design (CAD), and engineering while exploring aerospace careers. The program culminates in competitive summer challenges and, for top-performing teams, residential experiences at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas, where students work on prototypes and interact with NASA professionals.
Funding and benefits
- Direct engagement with NASA scientists and engineers
- Development of practical STEM skills in coding, CAD, and engineering
- Opportunity to participate in virtual summer challenges (Moonshot for juniors, Flight Path for seniors)
- Potential invitation to a residential experience at NASA’s Johnson Space Center (Base Camp for juniors, Slingshot for seniors)
- Exclusive behind-the-scenes tours and prototype manufacturing opportunities for residential participants
Who can apply?
- Must be a U.S. citizen
- Must be a Texas resident
- Must be a high school junior or senior
When to apply
- Junior Application Window: July 1 – September 16, 2026
How to apply
- Submit the application through the official NASA Texas Aerospace Scholars portal during the open application window.
- Complete the required online course modules (Launch Pad for juniors, Ignition for seniors) following acceptance.
Additional information
- The program offers separate tracks for juniors and seniors with distinct curricula and summer challenge formats.
- Educator opportunities are also available throughout the year.
- The program is virtual with specific components held at the Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas.
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Texas high school juniors and seniors with a strong interest in STEM, coding, and engineering.
- Students who are U.S. citizens and residents of Texas.
- Individuals looking for direct mentorship from NASA scientists and engineers.
What should you think carefully about?
- This is a year-long commitment, requiring consistent engagement with online modules and potential summer challenges.
- The program is hybrid, with the possibility of a residential experience at the Johnson Space Center in Houston for top-performing teams.
- Applicants must be able to balance the program's requirements with their existing high school academic workload.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This program is an excellent goal for students aiming to bridge the gap between classroom STEM learning and real-world aerospace applications. It provides a rare opportunity to build practical skills in CAD and engineering while networking with professionals in the field, which can be a foundational step for future university studies in science or technology.
Our take
Texas-based high school students with a passion for aerospace and a willingness to commit to a year-long program should apply, as it offers unparalleled access to NASA resources.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
Official-source verified
