Career Opportunities for Astronomers

Since it is not a career in the traditional or traded lines, the role of astronomer can often create confusion. Basically it is the role of a physics scientist researching and studying the entire galaxy including Sun, moon, planets, starts, and other features solving the mysteries of the huge universe.

Job Features of Astronomers

Job features of astronomers can be summed up as follows.

Astronomers will use intensive scientific equipments and tools.
Such tools include satellites, space probes, telescopes, measuring devices and other electronic gadgets to be used in space.
Their working environment is space or spaceship.
What They Work Upon

Astronomers will work on various aspects relating to space in the universe that includes –

Distance of stars, planets, asteroids, and other objects floating in the space from earth as well as each other;
Orbit ranges of different celestial bodies;
Movements of stars and other objects in the space;
Composition of planets and planetary bodies; and
Exploring the space unknown.
Working Environment

Most of the times of the astronomers are spent in the labs where they analyze and develop theories on the particles and masses floating in the space. Astronomers will use a combination of mathematics and science for research and experimentation in both general and specific levels.

Employment Opportunities

Multiple specialties in astronomy are there and government agencies and university research programs as well as various departments use their services. Usually the astronomers are highly trained and skilled operators of physics, mathematics and these wings of science help the researchers to research on the space but also to enhance the tools for monitoring and studying the tools. However, most of the job opportunities are still confined to defense services, public research and experiment sectors as space exploration is yet to be an integral part of private industries.

Academic and Training Requirements

Every aspirant looking for career opportunities as astronomer should realize that –

Having interest in astronomer’s work and becoming a professional astronomer are two different things.
For the former a bachelor’s degree would suffice whereas for becoming a professional, a minimum of master’s degree is necessary.
Doctoral degrees are more preferable. Training and job experience will give further edge to the claim of the candidate for astronomer’s job.
Subject of the discipline when it comes to Astronomer, is highly specific. So much stands hinging upon the innovative technologies of highly advanced types that excellent education and training are a necessity rather than luxury for astronomer career aspirants.