Astronomers

Career summary

#4/4/19 lh

Astronomy is sometimes considered a subfield of physics. Astronomers measure data from objects in space, including:

• Radio emissions
• Infrared emissions
• Gamma emissions
• X-ray emissions

Astronomers study the laws that govern astronomical objects, such as stars and planets. They develop instruments and techniques to observe and collect data on stars and planets in the galaxy. They investigate the evolution and structure of these objects.

Astronomers analyze data gathered by observatories and satellites. For example, they might calculate the size, shape, or orbit of planets or stars. Based on their research they may develop theories on how the universe was formed.

Some astronomers operate large telescopes on the ground or in space, such as the Hubble Space Telescope. They spend only a part of their time observing through optical telescopes. Most of their time is spent analyzing data gathered by the equipment.

Many astronomers teach astronomy courses at colleges and universities, write scientific reports, and give presentations. They often raise money for research projects.

A small number of astronomers work in museums that house planetariums. They develop and revise programs to be presented to the public. They may also direct operations in the planetarium.

Related careers

This career is part of the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics cluster of careers.

Related careers include:

• Aerospace Engineers
• Economists
• Geographers
• Mathematicians
• Operations Research Analysts
• Physicists
• Political Scientists
• Remote Sensing Scientists and Technologists
• Sociologists
• University and College Teachers

Military careers

• Physical Scientists

Job duties

Task list

The following list of tasks is specific to astronomers.

• Use principles of physics and math to learn about the sun, moon, planets, stars, and galaxies. Develop new theories.
• Develop instruments and techniques used to observe and collect astronomical data.
• Investigate physical laws that govern the structure and development of astronomical objects.
• Analyze data gathered by observatories and satellites. Write reports of scientific findings.
• Present research at scientific conferences and write papers for scientific journals.
• Operate complex electronic instruments and computer software to collect and analyze data.
• Operate large space- or ground-based telescopes to collect astronomical data. Often work as part of a team.
• Calculate positions, orbits, sizes, and shapes of astronomical objects.
• Raise funds for scientific research.
• Work with other astronomers on projects.
• Teach astronomy or astrophysics.
• May develop and revise planetarium programs and direct operations.

Common work activities

Astronomers perform the following tasks. These tasks are common to many careers.

• Use computers
• Get information needed to do the job
• Analyze data or information
• Think creatively
• Process information
• Update and use job-related knowledge
• Make decisions and solve problems
• Identify objects, actions, and events
• Explain the meaning of information to others
• Document and record information
• Teach others
• Develop goals and strategies
• Organize, plan, and prioritize work
• Estimate sizes, quantities, time, cost, or materials needed
• Communicate with people outside the organization
• Communicate with supervisors, peers, or subordinates
• Coach others
• Guide, direct, and motivate others
• Judge the value of objects, services, or people
• Schedule work and activities

Work requirements

Working conditions

In a typical work setting, astronomers:

Interpersonal relationships

• Have a medium level of social interaction.
• Communicate daily by telephone, e-mail, and in person. They also write letters and memos, but less frequently.
• May work as part of a larger scientific team.
• Are somewhat responsible for the work done by assistants.

Physical work conditions

• Work mostly indoors.

Work performance

• Must be very exact in performing the job. Good research depends on accurate data.
• Almost always make decisions and set daily tasks and goals without consulting another first. Astronomers work very independently.
• Work in a very competitive atmosphere. Reputations are based on scientific discoveries.

Hours/travel

• May work long or irregular hours when deeply involved in research.
• May spend long periods of time in observatories, using ground-based telescopes.
• May work frequently at night.
• May travel to observatories in remote locations.

Physical demands

Astronomers frequently:

• Sit for long periods of time.

It is important for astronomers to be able to:

• See details of objects that are less than a few feet away.
• See details of objects that are more than a few feet away.
• Speak clearly so listeners can understand.
• Understand the speech of another person.
• See differences between colors, shades, and brightness.

It is not as important, but still necessary, for astronomers to be able to:

• Determine the distance between objects.
• Use fingers to grasp, move, or assemble very small objects.

Skills and abilities

Astronomers need to:

Communicate

• Read and understand work-related materials.
• Understand spoken information.
• Write clearly so other people can understand.
• Understand written information.
• Speak clearly so listeners can understand.
• Listen to others and ask questions.

Reason and problem solve

• Analyze ideas and use logic to determine their strengths and weaknesses.
• Use reasoning to discover answers to problems.
• Understand new information or materials by studying and working with them.
• Combine several pieces of information and draw conclusions.
• Notice when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong.
• Judge the costs and benefits of a possible action.
• Think of original, unusual, or creative ways to solve problems.
• Follow guidelines to arrange objects or actions in a certain order.
• Concentrate and not be distracted while performing a task.
• Develop rules that group items in various ways.
• Think of new ideas about a topic.
• Recognize the nature of a problem.
• Remember information such as words, numbers, pictures, and procedures.
• Recognize when important changes happen or are likely to happen in a system.

Use math and science

• Use scientific methods to solve problems.
• Choose a mathematical method or formula to solve problems.
• Use math skills to solve problems.
• Add, subtract, multiply, and divide quickly and correctly.

Manage oneself, people, time, and things

• Check how well one is learning or doing something.
• Manage the time of self and others.

Work with people

• Use several methods to learn or teach new things.
• Be aware of others' reactions and understand the possible causes.
• Look for ways to help people.
• Teach others how to do something.
• Change behavior in relation to others' actions.

Perceive and visualize

• Identify a pattern (a figure, object, word, or sound) that is hidden in distracting material.
• Quickly and accurately compare letters, numbers, objects, pictures, or patterns.
• Imagine how something will look if it is moved around or its parts are rearranged.

Education and training

Educational programs

The programs of study listed below will help you prepare for the occupation or career cluster you are exploring.

Programs of study directly related to this occupation

• Astronomy
• Astrophysics
• Physics

Other programs of study to consider

• Geological and Earth Sciences
• Physical Sciences, General

Training

To work as an astronomer, you typically need to:

• have a high school diploma or equivalent;
• have a bachelor's degree in physical science; and
• have a doctoral degree (PhD) in astronomy.

Education after high school

In general, you need a doctoral degree (PhD) in astronomy to work in this field. Completing postdoctoral training is the best way to qualify for research or teaching positions.

A master's degree in astronomy is unlikely to qualify you for lead theoretical research. However, you can assist in this research. You also can qualify for other jobs that require a physics background. This includes jobs in manufacturing and applied research and development.

With a bachelor's degree in astronomy you can be a research assistant for an astronomer.

Many colleges and universities offer bachelor's degree programs in astronomy. Fewer offer master's and doctoral programs.

Work experience

After completing a doctoral degree, some astronomers work as postdoctoral fellows (postdocs). These university positions last for several years. Postdocs get experience working with other astronomers and physicists. This research can lead to a teaching or research job at a university.

On-the-job training

The length of training varies by the level of the job. Astronomers who are teachers or lead researchers rarely receive additional training. Assistants, however, generally receive a few months of on-the-job training.

Helpful high school courses

In high school, take classes that prepare you for college. A college preparatory curriculum  may be different from your state's graduation requirements . Astronomers use advanced math and science. Try to take math through Trigonometry and science through Physics.

You should also consider taking some advanced courses in high school. This includes Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) courses if they are available in your school. If you do well in these courses, you may receive college credit for them. Advanced courses can also strengthen your college application.

Helpful electives to take in high school that prepare you for this career include:

• Astronomy
• Computer Applications
• Computer Science
• Probability and Statistics

The courses listed above are meant to help you create your high school plan. If you have not already done so, talk to a school counselor or parent about the courses you are considering taking.

You should also check with a teacher or counselor to see if work-based learning opportunities are available in your school and community. These might include field trips, job shadowing, internships, and actual work experience. The goal of these activities is to help you connect your school experiences with real-life work.

Join some groups, try some hobbies, or volunteer with an organization that interests you. By participating in activities you can have fun, make new friends, and learn about yourself. Maybe one of them will help direct you to a future career. Here are examples of activities and groups  that may be available in your high school or community.

Things to know

Many employers require that applicants have a doctoral degree (PhD) in astronomy or physics. Universities choose candidates based on their area of research and the quality of their published articles.

Mathematical ability and problem-solving and analytical skills are essential. Curiosity, imagination, and initiative are also very important traits for any scientist. Good communication skills are helpful when working in teams or writing reports. These traits are necessary for a person to achieve success in academic and research programs. However, most employers look more at education and experience than at personal traits.

Costs to workers

Workers may need to pay association dues, travel, reference books and journals, and college classes, conferences, and seminars to keep up with changes in the field.

Job listings

Listed below are links to job categories from the National Labor Exchange that relate to this career. Once you get a list of jobs, you can view information about individual jobs and find out how to apply. If your job search finds too many openings, or if you wish to search for jobs outside of Washington, you will need to refine your search.

• Astronomers 

To get a listing of current jobs from the WorkSource system, go to the WorkSource website .

Wages

Wages vary based on the astronomer's level of education and experience. Wages also vary by employer. For example, astronomers who work for the federal government generally receive higher wages.

Benefits also vary by employer. Most astronomers receive benefits such as paid vacation, sick leave, health insurance, and a retirement plan.

Employment and outlook

Washington outlook

The table below provides information about the number of workers in this career in various regions. It also provides information about the expected growth rate and future job openings. The figures in this table do not include those who teach at colleges and universities.

National employment

Although astronomers work in all parts of the country, most work in areas where universities, large research and development labs, or observatories are located.

Major employers:

• Colleges and universities
• Federal government agencies
• Research and development firms

National outlook

Job growth will depend on the amount of money the government spends on astronomy-related research. It is expected that this spending will be flat in the next few years. Thus, only a few new jobs will be created and there will be a lot of competition for these jobs.

Competition for research jobs in colleges and universities is very strong. These jobs usually require several advanced degrees. More opportunities are available for high school science teachers.

Other resources

A New Universe to Explore: A Guide to Careers in Astronomy  

American Association for the Advancement of Science 
1200 New York Ave, NW
Washington,DC20005

American Astronomical Society 
1667 K Street NW, Suite 800
Washington, DC 20006
202.328.2010

American Institute of Physics 
One Physics Ellipse
College Park, MD 20740
301.209.3100

American Physical Society 
1 Physics Ellipse
College Park, MD 20740
301.209.3200

Careers in Physics 

Careers in Space: A Universe of Options 

National Academy of Sciences Interviews 

National Science Foundation 
2415 Eisenhower Avenue
Alexandria, Virginia 2231

Physics Central--People in Physics 

Science Careers 

Washington State Science & Engineering Fair 

References

Career cluster

• Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics

Career path

• Investigative (Science)

O*Net  occupation

• Astronomers (19-2011.00) 

O*Net job zone 

• Job Zone 5 - Extensive preparation needed. Extensive skill, knowledge, and experience are needed for these occupations. Many require more than five years of experience.

DOT occupation

• Astronomer (021.067-010) 

Holland occupational cluster

• Investigative/Artistic/Realistic

COPSystem

• Science Professional