Astronomer

10th

12th (PCM Compulsory)

• Admission into the B. Sc. in Astronomy course is based on the candidates’ performance in the college/university-specific examination (if specified). However, it may vary from college to college; check the particular college rules and regulations before applying.

• To become an ASTRONOMER/SPACE SCIENTIST, a candidate should graduate with B. Sc. in Astronomy/ B.Sc. in Astrophysics/B. Tech in relevant Engineering etc.
• It is a three years/3 years/4 years - undergraduate degree course.

• Admission into the M. Sc. in Astronomy/M. Tech in Astronomy and Space Engineering course is based on the candidates’ performance in the college/university-specific examination (if specified). However, it may vary from college to college; check the particular college rules and regulations before applying.

• After graduation, students must obtain a postgraduate degree like M. Sc. in Astronomy/M. Tech in Astronomy and Space Engineering is the relevant field from any recognized college or university.
• The duration of postgraduate courses like M. Tech/ M. Sc. will be for two years.

• Admission into the Ph. D (Doctor of Philosophy) in Astronomy course is based on the candidates’ performance in the university-specific examination (if specified). However, it may vary from university to university; check the particular university rules and regulations before applying.
• Various entrance exams like CSIR UGC NET and UGC NET entrance exam can also make admission into the Ph. D course. A valid GATE scorecard is required to pursue a Ph.D.

Official Website for Registration to CSIR UGC NET Exam:  https://csirnet.nta.nic.in/

• After post-graduation completion, students must obtain a Ph.D. program to get a doctorate in the relevant field from any recognized university.
• The duration of the Ph.D. program will be 3 to 5 years.

• After completing the master’s degree and Ph.D., the candidate can apply for multiple research institutes or labs to attain higher education, i.e., a postdoctoral degree.
• Candidates can start working in various institutions or organizations like ISRO, NASA, etc.

Who is an Astronomer?

      An astronomer/Space scientist is a scientist in astronomy who focuses their studies on a specific question or field outside the scope of Earth. Astronomers are space scientists who research the content, motion, and matter of celestial bodies, planets, etc. In observational or theoretical astronomy, astronomers observe astronomical objects such as stars, planets, moons, comets, and galaxies. Astronomers used space-based technology, like the Hubble Space Telescope, and ground-based technology, like optical telescopes. Astronomers usually fall under either of two main types: observational and theoretical. Observational astronomers make direct observations of celestial objects and analyze the data. In contrast, theoretical astronomers create and investigate models of things that cannot be observed. For example, because it takes millions to billions of years for a system of stars or a galaxy to complete a life cycle, astronomers must observe snapshots of different strategies at unique points in their evolution to determine how they form, evolve, and die.

Job Responsibilities of an Astronomer

• The prime responsibility of an Astronomer is to study the evolution of stars, understand the creation of the sun and solar system, and predict future phenomena. 
• Astronomers analyze different devices to solve a specific problem of properly functioning a machine or machinery. 
• Astronomers observe and study the nature of matter and energy in the universe.
• Astronomers also conduct research and solve problems in space flight navigational systems.
• Astronomers coordinate and collaborate with other scientists, physicists, and engineers on satellite communications.

Career Scope of an Astronomer

      The increasing popularity and explosive growth have generated various job opportunities in the field of research and development.

• At the entry-level, the candidate can get the role of Junior Research Fellow(JRF), Research Trainee, etc.,with the existing team who are already working on an Astronomy project. 
• Astronomers are mainly required in various fields like NASA, the Association of Bangalore Amateur Astronomers (ABAA), the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC), the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO), and many others.
• There are plenty of job opportunities for Astronomers as Research Scientists in government and private organizations such as the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO). 
• The candidates can find opportunities in academics, observatories, planetariums, and museums, join Universities or Institutions for a Ph.D. program & obtain a permanent job.

    Salary/Income of an Astronomer

      At an entry-level, an astronomer starts from Rs 50,000/- per month.However, those who have earned experience and are highly qualified can earn an annual salary of Rs. 8 lacs to Rs 10 lacs.