Astronomers work to help us understand more about the universe. Their research plays a part in answering questions, such as how the universe began and how it will end, where the Sun, Earth and other plants came from, what matter is made of and whether there is life on other planets. A lot of astronomy and space research plays a part in everyday life, as astronomers find answers to fundamental questions about how things work around us.
The work involves using telescopes, but astronomy is largely about using physics, mathematics and IT to analyse the images and data gathered by observatories, both ground based or aboard spacecraft.
Data collected by an instrument on a telescope in just a few hours can take months to analyse, so astronomers spend a lot of time using computers to interpret their data.
The work may include:
- defining questions to be answered, such as the evolution of a particular type of star or nebula and the way it is likely to change in the future
- writing proposals applying for telescope time at observatories worldwide
- gathering and processing data
- putting forward theories and using mathematical models and calculations to test them
- developing new software to help interpret information
- writing papers for publication and making presentations
- designing new observational instruments and maintaining existing equipment
- teaching astrophysics in universities
- sharing research with the public in an accessible way.
Observational astronomers often travel abroad to use optical telescopes at locations chosen to minimise interference from water vapour in the atmosphere or light pollution. There are major observatories in La Palma (Canary Islands), Chile, Hawaii and Australia, for example, but there is also increasing use of remote robotic telescopes.
As well as telescopes on the ground, astronomers also use observatories aboard orbiting spacecraft, such as the Hubble Space Telescope, and those that look at radiation other than visible light, such as the X-ray telescope XMM-Newton.
Research is usually carried out with colleagues. Sharing ideas is a major part of an astronomer’s life, which is good for research and helps astronomers stay up to date with current developments.
Those working on large projects, such as space missions or new telescope technology, may work jointly with astronomers in other countries, co-ordinated by agencies such as the European Space Agency or the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA).
Hours and environment
Astronomers generally work normal office hours. However, they may have to work long and unsocial hours for some projects.
The job is mostly desk based in an office or laboratory and involves a lot of work with computers. Astronomers involved in observational work may travel abroad frequently.
Salary and other benefits
These figures are only a guide, as actual rates of pay may vary depending on the employer and where people live.
- A newly qualified astronomer with a PhD may earn around €30,000 a year as a postdoctoral research assistant in a university.
- With some experience, salaries may rise to around €50,000 for a university lecturer.
- The most senior astronomers may earn up to €65,000 a year as university professors.
Skills and personal qualities
An astronomer should have:
- a strong background in maths and physics
- the ability to analyse complex information
- a thorough and methodical approach
- extensive computer skills
- the patience to work on projects for long periods of time
- good writing and presentation skills.
Interests
It is important to have an interest in:
- maths and physics
- computers and technology.
Entry routes
Almost all astronomers have a degree in maths, physics, astronomy, astrophysics or geophysics. Most also have a postgraduate qualification, either a PhD or a masters degree.
Maths and physics are the most relevant degree subjects and some universities offer joint degrees combining astrophysics with another science or maths subject. A common route is to aim for a for an honours broad-based maths or physics degree and then specialise in astronomy or astrophysics at postgraduate level.
Useful Links:
Astronomy Ireland
Royal Astronomical Society
SpaceCareers.uk