Astronomer
What is the work like?
As an astronomer, you would use a wide range of scientific techniques to study the universe, its origin and make-up. You could specialise in a particular area, such as planetary science, solar astronomy, the origin and evolution of stars or the formation of galaxies.
Astronomy can be divided into two main areas – observational astronomy and theoretical astronomy.
Observational astronomy
In this area, your work could include:
- developing new instrumentation and maintaining existing equipment
- using optical and radio telescopes or equipment on satellites and spacecraft to collect data
- developing software to interpret the images gained from satellites
- analysing data and testing theories.
Theoretical astronomy
Your work in this field would involve:
- creating complex computer models to develop theories on the physical processes happening in space
- analysing the results of past observations to develop new predictions (hypothesis)
- making observations and testing theories
- analysing results in relation to what is currently known (this could lead to advances in our understanding about events in the universe).
You would keep up to date with developments in your area of interest by attending meetings and conferences, carrying out research, writing reports and presenting your findings.
You could also work within education, for example teaching and carrying out research in a university.
What qualifications and experience will employers look for?
To work in astronomy you usually need a degree in a subject such as maths, physics, astrophysics or geophysics. Some universities offer astronomy, planetary physics or space-science (as a single subject or combined, for example with maths). Some courses give you the chance to spend a year studying overseas or working in an observatory.
To get onto a degree, you will usually need five GCSEs (A-C) including maths, English and science, plus three A levels including maths and physics. Check with universities for exact entry details because alternative qualifications may also be accepted.
Many employers will expect you to have a first or upper second class MSci or MPhys degree and be working towards a research qualification (such as a PhD) in your specialist area of interest. The Royal Astronomical Society (RAS) has a list of relevant degree courses and information on work experience opportunities for A level students.
You may be able to move into astronomy if you have a background in an area such as computer science, maths or some branches of chemistry or engineering.
What further training and development can I do?
You will need to continue your training by working towards a specialist postgraduate research qualification, such as a PhD. This would involve studying and working closely with a research department in a university for around three years. You would develop the skills needed for individual research and carry out investigations into your particular area of interest.
During your training, you would create a thesis (based on your research findings) and you would be interviewed at length about your work. The Science and Technology Facilities Council has details about research opportunities and funding.
Once you start work in astronomy, you would usually receive specialist training from your employer, which may also cover issues related to health and safety and the practical aspects of the lab or observatory. You may also be encouraged to work towards professional qualifications, such as Chartered Scientist status; check with the Royal Astronomical Society (RAS) for details.
Where can I go for more information?
Burlington HousePiccadilly
London
W1J 0BQ
Tel: 020 7734 4582
North Star Avenue
Swindon
SN2 1SZ
Tel: 01793 442000
If you would like to discuss your career options with a learning adviser, call 0800 100 900 or use our online enquiry form
Alternatively, you can visit our website at: www.direct.gov.uk/careersadvice
Related profiles...
What salary and other benefits can I expect?
- Junior researchers can earn around £20,000 to £30,000 a year.
- Senior researchers/astronomers and those involved in lecturing may earn up to £60,000 a year.
Figures are intended as a guideline only.
What are the hours and working conditions?
You could work long and irregular hours, including weekends, evenings and nights, depending on the project you are working on and the observations you are making.
As well as labs and observatories, you could also work in a museum, planetarium, or in education (for example, teaching in a university).
Your work is likely to include frequent travel to attend meetings and conferences, and visit observatories.
What skills and knowledge will I need?
- good powers of observation
- a methodical and logical approach to work
- the ability to work with abstract ideas and make complex calculations
- patience and determination to see a project through to completion – often over several years
- good attention to detail
- the ability to analyse problems relating to maths and physics
- the ability to produce scientific reports for publication
- confidence to present your research findings
- strong computer skills
- the ability to develop good working relationships with colleagues around the world.
What opportunities are there?
You would probably start your career in astronomy in a short term research fellowship post; these can last between one and three years. You could be based in a university or research institute in the UK or overseas. There is strong competition for work.
You would also find research opportunities with laboratories such as the Astronomy Technology Centre in Edinburgh and the Rutherford Appleton Laboratories (the Science and Technology Facilities Council website links to many of the main labs and observatories).
You could work directly with an observatory (maintaining and developing instruments) or in a government department (such as the Ministry of Defence).
With experience and a PhD in Astronomy, you would have transferable skills that could be used in a number of related careers. For example, you could move into the aerospace industries, satellite research and development, systems analysis, software engineering, teaching, scientific journalism or accountancy.
You may find journals such as The Astronomer, Astronomy Magazine, Astronomy Now and the websites of the RAS, and AAS (American Astronomical Society) useful for further reading and job vacancies. You could also check directly with universities.
Contact an adviser
Email
Call back
or phone: 0800 100 900
Bilingual advisers available
Face-to-face advice
