Virginia Earth System Science Scholars (VESSS)

The Virginia Earth System Science Scholars (VESSS) program is a free NASA-themed STEM course from the Virginia Space Grant Consortium for Virginia high school juniors and seniors. It introduces students to the satellite missions NASA uses to study Earth's systems through remote sensing. The program begins with an online course during the school year. For the cycle that opens applications in fall 2026, modules start in December and are due every two weeks; scholars complete seven modules and a capstone project, answer real-world questions, and join discussion forums with other students and NASA scientists and engineers. Students who successfully finish the course are invited to a seven-day residential summer academy at NASA Langley Research Center in Hampton, Virginia. There, teams design a mission to explore Earth systems by launching a satellite, tour NASA Langley facilities, and receive mentoring from NASA engineers, scientists and technologists. The program is free, and participants can earn up to five transferable, dual-enrolled college credits through Virginia Peninsula Community College.

Applicants must be Virginia residents in their junior or senior year of high school with a minimum 2.7 GPA, internet access, an email address and an interest in STEM. U.S. citizenship is required to attend the summer academy at NASA Langley; permanent residents may apply for the online course. Students submit an online application, a teacher recommendation and a school counselor letter confirming Virginia high school attendance, grade level and GPA. Applications open August 15 and are due October 25, 2026.