An astronomer, observe, investigate, and interpret celestial and astronomical occurrences to broaden our understanding and use that knowledge to solve problems in real life.
In developed countries like the USA and India, astronomy is one of the most lucrative job. These countries have a significant requirement for astronomers to handle, maintain, and keep vital data.
If you wish to earn a degree in this odd profession, you should not miss this comprehensive guide to becoming an astronomer.
What Does an Astronomer Do?
i) Use computers to analyze research data to ascertain its importance.
ii) Calculate the orbits of various celestial bodies and estimate their sizes, forms, brightnesses, and movements.
iii) Work together on research initiatives with other astronomers.
iv) Create hypotheses based on your own observations or the findings and hypotheses of other astronomers.
v) Track extraterrestrial sources’ radio, infrared, gamma, and x-ray emissions.
vi) Examine celestial phenomena utilizing a range of telescopes and scientific equipment that is both grounds- and space-based.
vii) Create equipment and software for the observation and study of the stars.
viii) Oversee a planetarium’s operations
ix) Collect money for scientific investigation.
x) Using pertinent data and personal judgment, analyze whether events or processes adhere to laws, rules, or standards.
xi)Creating detailed plans and goals to organize, prioritize, and complete your task.
What are the Skills Required to Become an Astronomer?
a) Mathematics – Applying math to fix problems.
b) Science – Applying scientific principles and procedures to resolve problems.
c) Critical thinking – Using logic and reasoning to evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of certain results, solutions, or methods for solving issues.
d) Reading Comprehension – The ability to understand sentences and paragraphs in papers related to the job.
e) Technology Design – Creating or modifying tools and technology to meet user requirements.
f) Equipment Selection – Deciding what tools and equipment are required to complete a task.
g) Solving Complicated Problems – This process involves identifying complex issues, assessing pertinent data, and developing and analyzing potential solutions.
h) Active Learning – Recognizing how new information may affect when you solve problems and make decisions both now and in the future.
i) Writing – Good in writing to communicate effectively with the audience.
j) Operations Analysis – Assessing needs and product requirements to develop a design.
k) Operation and Control – Managing system or equipment operations.
How to Become an Astronomer?
The Indian Space and Research Organization (ISRO) has accomplished some amazing feats during the last few years.
You can opt to become an astronomer if you’re interested in the wide range of undiscovered objects in space and want to learn more about all of the well-known celestial bodies, like the Sun, Moon, Mars, Jupiter, and others.
You will have the opportunity to explore the entire universe if you become an astronomer. But not everyone has the ability to study astronomy. Despite the certain obstacles to overcome, the career is profitable and extremely gratifying.
Eligibility Criteria
The eligibility requirements may vary depending on the university you decide to enroll in. Some of the requirements are as follows:
A candidate must successfully finish the 10+2 level education in the core subjects of math, physics, and chemistry. As an aspiring astronomer, you must choose a field. There are three choices: observational, theoretical, and instrumental astronomy.
You can choose to become an experimental or instrument astronomer if you’re interested in a career in engineering. A candidate must select at least one subject from the science stream in the field of observational astronomy.
A full-time Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) in an electronic communication is required for those who want to work as instrumental astronomers. After earning their Ph.D. in physics, candidates can only go on to work in theoretical astronomy.
What is the Salary of an Astronomer?
Astronomy is highly in demand. Your chosen profession in astronomy will determine your salary. The pay scale for astronomy is high. Astronomers typically make a starting salary of Rs. 50,000 per month.
A highly qualified individual with experience will receive an annual salary between Rs. 8 and Rs. 10 lacs. Student needs to pay between three and four lakhs to pursue this course. Astronomy preparation is at a high level. For the astronomy admission exam, students spend more than a year studying.
Most Frequently Asked Questions
Ans: It takes about 4 years to become an astronomer in India.
Ans: Yes, astronomers are employed by a company’s research department, which makes them eligible for good pay. Astronomers in India typically make roughly Rs. 15,50,000 a year.
Ans: Over the next ten years, there are expected to be, on average, 2,100 new positions for physicists and astronomers.