The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) of the US runs the NASA International Internship (NASA I²) Program, which offers non-US students the chance to work on real NASA projects at selected centres, providing hands-on experience in space research and technology. This initiative helps students build technical skills, gain exposure to international best practices, and return with insights that benefit their home institutions. It serves as a strong model for how structured international internships can strengthen national space capabilities through global collaboration.