About Astronomers
The study of the heavens dates to primitive observatories, like Stonehenge, which still track the movements of the sun with remarkable accuracy. Today, astronomers use state-of-the-art technology to learn about not only the sun but the planets, stars and galaxies. It's one of the most challenging disciplines in science, but if you are curious about the universe and how it works, consider a career in astronomy.
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Identification
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Astronomers are multidisciplinary scientists who use physics and mathematics to investigate the universe. Some concentrate on the sun, moon, planets, asteroids and other bodies of our solar system. Others focus on stars, distant galaxies or exotic objects like black holes and quasars. Astronomy is primarily basic science aimed at discovering fundamental knowledge about the universe. There is an applied dimension as well. Some astronomers play a key role in helping develop space-based navigation and communications satellites.
Types
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Astronomers specialize in several areas. Theoretical astronomers work to develop models of the origin and structure of the universe. Most astronomers are either specialists in analysis, drawing on observational data to uncover new information, or field astronomers, operating Earth- and space-based telescopes and other instruments. Sub-disciplines in the field include solar and planetary astronomy, stellar astronomy (the study of distant stars) and astrophysics, which relies on viewing events in the universe to find clues to advance the science of physics. In recent years, the development of technology that can detect planets orbiting other stars has opened up an entirely new area in astronomy.
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Education
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High school students wishing to pursue a career in astronomy need a strong background in mathematics and science, particularly physics. At the undergraduate level, students take courses in mathematics, computer science and theoretical and applied physics. Courses in solar, planetary, stellar, and analytical astronomy are also required. Because astronomy is mainly concerned with basic science, students should plan on earning at least a master's degree and eventually a PhD.
Employment
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About three out of four astronomers work in some research capacity for a university or government agency such as NASA. The remainder work for research and development firms that apply principles of astronomy and physics to problems in navigation, spaceflight and satellite communications. Positions go mainly to those with PhDs and competition is intense since there are only 40 approved doctoral programs in the United States (as of 2007). Those with a bachelor's or master's degree work as research assistants (usually while pursuing a doctorate) or in manufacturing positions, where their knowledge of physics is useful.
Benefits
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According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the mean salary for astronomers in 2007 was $98,200. Entry-level positions comprised most of the lowest 10 percent and averaged $44,390. The highest-paid 25 percent averaged $131,620. Federal agencies were the highest-paying employers, followed by colleges and universities. Career advancement for astronomers can lead to management or tenure-track academic positions. For most, advancement means gaining more independence, professional standing and funding.
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