A career as an astronomer or astrophysicist is a dream career for the people who like to challenge and be challenged. Astronomy is the scientific study of celestial bodies while astrophysics is a branch of astronomy concerned with the physics and chemistry of the celestial bodies. Astronomy is an observational science while astrophysics is an experimental science.

Astronomy is the oldest science in the world and modern astronomy is a flourishing science with modern astronomers using most advanced astronomical technologies such as modern day ground-based telescopes with the latest electronic light-gathering mechanism and inbuilt imaging and spectroscopic equipments for space research. Powerful supercomputers and state-of-the-art softwares are also used in modern day astronomical research.

Astronomy is a challenging science. If you have the qualities such as analytical thinking, powerful imagination, logic and intuition, then you can aspire to become a professional astronomer. You should opt for a B.Sc. or B.Eng. in Mathematics, Physics or Engineering subjects during graduation and then apply for a Master’s degree programme in Astronomy & Astrophysics. Since this is largely a research-oriented field, having a doctorate degree is always desirable. During doctoral programme, research scholars study various subjects like Quantum Physics, Numerical Analysis and Astronomy & Astrophysics. It will take about four years to complete a good PhD programme.

Since astronomy is a relatively small field, strong competition exists for various career positions. A major percent of professional astronomers find work in large astronomy departments at universities and colleges. Qualified astronomers and astrophysicists are also required by national observatories; national aerospace laboratories, space research organizations, Planetariums, science museums, and business firms active in the aerospace research field.

Private industry particularly prefers professionals with good experience in sophisticated astronomical instrumentation and computer programming. Another major career choice is as Research Scientists. Several astronomical and aerospace research institutes employ research scientists in various space research projects.

1 Comment

1. suramya says:

   May 23, 2010 at 7:10 am

   hey ….. can u tell me that from where can i get a masters degree in astrophysics. right now i m in 2nd year of my 4 year B.tech course,pursuing in electrical and electronics engineering.
   please help me.

   Reply