RESEARCH OPPORTUNITY
The Student Airborne Research Program (SARP) is a eight-week summer program for junior and senior undergraduate and early graduate students to acquire hands-on research experience in all aspects of a scientific campaign using NASA's DC-8 or P-3 airborne science laboratories.

The DC-8 and P-3 are major NASA resources for studying Earth system processes, calibration/validation of space-borne observations, and prototyping instruments for possible satellite missions. Participants will assist in the operation of instruments onboard the aircraft to sample atmospheric chemicals, and to image land and water surfaces in multiple spectral bands.

Research areas include atmospheric chemistry, evapotranspiration from agricultural crops in California's Central Valley, and ocean biology along the California coast. Along with airborne data collection, students will participate in taking measurements at field sites. The program culminates with formal presentations of research results and conclusions.

STUDENT BACKGROUND
Students interested in the program should have a strong academic background in disciplines relevant to the Earth system including the physical, chemical or biological sciences or engineering. Image processing and GIS experience will be useful for those interested in remote sensing.

Eligibility requirements include full-time student status at an accredited U.S. college or university. Women and minorities are strongly encouraged to apply.

STUDENT SELECTION
Applications for the Student Airborne Research Program are opened each fall. Specific application requirements can be found in the annual program detail pages. Once applications are closed, the review process and resulting student selection process are based on the following selection criteria:

• Excellent academic performance
• Potential for contributing to nation's future workforce as judged by career plans
• Evidence of interest in Earth system science and hands-on research
• Ability to perform in teams

THE CHOSEN FEW
Approximately thirty students are chosen from the applicant pool to participate in the program. Participants will be awarded a stipend as well as a meal allowance. Travel and living expenses will also be provided during the eight-week program.

FACULTY / MENTORS
Outstanding faculty, mentors and staff are drawn from several universities and NASA centers, as well as from NASA flight operations and engineering. Program faculty will present detailed information on their research. Faculty and mentors will then guide participants through instrument and flight preparations, data analysis, and interpretation.

A list of participants for each mission can be found on the mission-specific page.