Guidance.help

Astronomers

People classed as Astronomers observe, research, and interpret astronomical phenomena to increase basic knowledge or apply such information to practical problems. With a code of IRC, this is mostly a job for people drawn to research, analysis and working through hard problems. Realistic interests also help, rated 5.1 out of 7. The preparation level is extensive preparation, typically graduate school and often five years or more of related experience. O*NET’s skill data points to science, reading comprehension, and writing as the ones to build. Expect to analyze research data to determine its significance, using computers. It tends to suit people who want research, analysis and working through hard problems, and it offers little for anyone seeking leading, persuading and making business decisions.

What they do

Observe, research, and interpret astronomical phenomena to increase basic knowledge or apply such information to practical problems.

Main tasks

  • Analyze research data to determine its significance, using computers.
  • Present research findings at scientific conferences and in papers written for scientific journals.
  • Study celestial phenomena, using a variety of ground-based and space-borne telescopes and scientific instruments.
  • Collaborate with other astronomers to carry out research projects.
  • Mentor graduate students and junior colleagues.
  • Supervise students' research on celestial and astronomical phenomena.

Skills

  • Science
  • Reading Comprehension
  • Writing
  • Mathematics
  • Critical Thinking
  • Speaking

Who this career fits

May suit you if

  • You enjoy working out why something happens, not just what happened.
  • You like ending the day with a physical result you can point to.
  • You are prepared for graduate-level study and a long training path.
  • You are comfortable relying on science and reading comprehension.

May not suit you if

  • You lose interest when a job asks for long stretches of analysis.
  • You want to lead people or run the business side. Enterprising rates 1.9 out of 7 here.
  • You want to be working in the field within the next few years.

Interest profile

O*NET rates each occupation from 1 to 7 on six interest types. The code IRC takes the three highest, and Investigative comes first here.

Preparation

Extensive preparation. Many jobs here need graduate study, and people often spend five years or more building specialist experience.

Most-reported requirement in the O*NET survey: Doctoral Degree. This reflects what workers reported most often and is not a legal minimum. Licensing rules can differ by state or industry, so confirm what applies where you plan to work.

Also called

  • Astronomer
  • Astronomy Outreach Coordinator
  • Astrophysicist
  • Research Astrophysicist

Related careers

Is this your direction?

See how your interests line up with IRC and 906 other careers.

Take the career test

This page includes information from the O*NET 31.0 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.