Life As an Astronomer
Astronomer Job Description Observe, research, and interpret astronomical phenomena to increase basic knowledge or apply such information to practical problems.
A Day in the Life of an Astronomer
- Collaborate with other astronomers to carry out research projects.
- Teach astronomy or astrophysics.
- Develop instrumentation and software for astronomical observation and analysis.
- Calculate orbits and determine sizes, shapes, brightness, and motions of different celestial bodies.
- Analyze research data to determine its significance, using computers.
- Study celestial phenomena, using a variety of ground-based and space-borne telescopes and scientific instruments.
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Astronomer Skills
Astronomers state the following job skills are important in their day-to-day work.
Science: Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
Reading Comprehension: Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
Critical Thinking: Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
Active Learning: Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
Writing: Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
Mathematics: Using mathematics to solve problems.
Related Job Titles for this Occupation:
- Data Sciences Director
- Life Sciences Director
- Astronomy Department Chair
- Institute Director
- Associate Professor
Are There Job Opportunities for Astronomers?
There were about 2,000 jobs for Astronomer in 2016 (in the United States). New jobs are being produced at a rate of 10% which is above the national average. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts 200 new jobs for Astronomer by 2026. The BLS estimates 200 yearly job openings in this field.
The states with the most job growth for Astronomer are Arizona, Washington, and Texas. Watch out if you plan on working in Hawaii, Maryland, or Texas. These states have the worst job growth for this type of profession.
How Much Does an Astronomer Make?
The salary for Astronomers ranges between about $57,490 and $165,770 a year.
Astronomers who work in District of Columbia, California, or Hawaii, make the highest salaries.
How much do Astronomers make in different U.S. states?
| State | Annual Mean Salary |
|---|---|
| Arizona | $104,100 |
| California | $113,130 |
| District of Columbia | $123,640 |
| Hawaii | $126,170 |
| New Mexico | $78,910 |
| Texas | $107,350 |
Tools & Technologies Used by Astronomers
Below is a list of the types of tools and technologies that Astronomers may use on a daily basis:
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Word
- Microsoft Office
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Web browser software
- Python
- Structured query language SQL
- The MathWorks MATLAB
- SAS
- Linux
- IBM SPSS Statistics
- R
- National Instruments LabVIEW
- Apache Hadoop
- Formula translation/translator FORTRAN
- Software development tools
- Interface definition language IDL
- C++
- Visual Numerics PV-WAVE
How to Become an Astronomer
What education or degrees do I need to become an Astronomer?
How many years of work experience do I need?
Astronomers Sector
The table below shows the approximate number of Astronomers employed by various industries.
References:
Image Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech/Univ. of Ariz. via Public domain
More about our data sources and methodologies.
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