Are you fascinated by Space and the infinity of the universe?
We have all been curious to learn about heavenly bodies since childhood. Astronomy is the oldest science that studies the sun, moon, stars, planets, galaxies and comets, generally known as celestial bodies. It is also the study of all the phenomena outside the earth’s atmosphere.
Astronomy is most suitable for those who have a special interest in space programs and technologies. There are also plenty of career opportunities in the field of astronomy.
Future Scope for a Career in Astronomy
- Most astronomers are directly employed at national observatories and laboratories.
- There are several astronomical institutions in India, including the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA).
- You can also work in the government institutions such as ISRO and DRDO as well as institutions like NASA.
- An astronomy graduate can work as a technical writer if they have extensive scientific knowledge.
- An astronomer has the opportunity to work as an astrophysicist in various research organisations.
- Observational astronomy is an important career in the field of astronomy. They observe celestial objects with the use of telescopes and other astronomical instruments.
- Radio astronomers are one of the most prominent careers in the field. They detect radio discharges happening naturally in a galaxy, stars and various other types of celestial bodies.
- You can work as a solar astronomer who studies the composition of the sun and its flares and other kinds of related phenomena.
- Industries such as the aerospace field hire astronomers to research to give their company a competitive edge.
Skills Required to Study Astronomy
- Critical thinking skills
- Problem-solving skills
- Decision-making skills and the ability to implement those decisions.
- Creative mind
- Solid knowledge of Physics and Mathematics
- Knowledge of computer programmes and software
- Knowledge of computer programming
- Experience with modern astronomical instrumentation
- Good observation skills
- Research skills
- Ability to work as a team
Careers in Astronomy
- Space Scientist
- Research Scientist
- Observational Astronomers
- Theoretical Astrophysicists
- Stellar Astronomers
- Solar Astronomers
- Technicians
- Research Assistants
Eligibility to Pursue a Degree in Astronomy
Students who passed 10+2 from recognized institutions under the science stream can apply for a bachelor’s degree in Astronomy.
Entrance Examinations
There is no specific entrance examination for this course.
Top Colleges/Universities in India and Abroad to Study Astronomy
- Embry- Riddle Aeronautical University, US
- University of Canterbury, New Zealand
- Auckland University of Technology, New Zealand
- University of Illinois, US
- University of Kent, UK
Famous People Connected With Astronomy
Galileo Galilei
Galilei laid the foundation of modern astronomy with his observations of the moon, phases of Venus, moons around Jupiter and sunspots. Galileo is best known for discovering the four most massive moons of Jupiter, now known as the Galilean moons.
Nicolaus Copernicus
Polish astronomer Copernicus was the first to propose that the Sun – not the Earth – was the centre of the universe, as was commonly believed at the time.
Top Institutions that Employ People in this Field
- Inter-University Centre for Astronomy & Astrophysics (IUCAA)
- Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC)
- NASA
- Forecasting & Assessment Council (TIFAC)
- Observatories and laboratories
- Universities, Colleges and other institutions
- Planetariums
- Science museums
