Astronomer
Astronomers study the origin and structure of the universe, including its planets, stars, galaxies and black holes.
Also known as: Astrophysicist, astrobiologist, planetary scientist
- Starter salary£31,000 a year
- Experienced£65,000 a year
- Typical hours39 to 41 a week
What you'll do
As an observational astronomer, you could:
- collect and analyse data from satellites and spacecraft
- explore space using radio, infrared and optical telescopes
- design new satellites and instruments for space exploration
- develop software to interpret images and data captured by satellites and telescopes
As a theoretical astronomer, you could:
- create computer models to simulate space phenomena
- develop theories to explain cosmic processes, like planetary and star formation
- work with observational data to test, refine and verify predictions
- analyse past data to understand how the universe has developed over time
In both roles, you would:
- use artificial intelligence systems to sift through large collections of images and data
- work closely with space engineers, software developers and data analysts
- publish articles on research findings and present them at conferences
- examine activity on Earth from space, such as volcanic eruptions, global weather patterns and sea level changes
Working environment
You could work in an observatory, in a laboratory, at a university or visit sites.
Your working environment may be outdoors some of the time and you may spend nights away from home.
Skills and knowledge you'll need
You'll need:
- maths knowledge
- knowledge of physics
- analytical thinking skills
- science skills
- excellent verbal communication skills
- the ability to use your initiative
- the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
- persistence and determination
- to have a thorough understanding of computer systems and applications
How to become a astronomer
You can get into this job through a university course.
University
You'll need a degree and postgraduate qualification to work as an astronomer. You'll usually need to have achieved a first class honours or 2:1 in your degree.
Relevant subjects include:
- maths
- physics
- astrophysics
- geophysics
- astronomy
- space science
You can also do an extended 4-year degree to get a postgraduate master's qualification. These courses include more independent research and can lead on to a PhD.
Many employers will expect you to have completed, or be working towards, a PhD in your specialist area of interest.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, maths and science
- 2 or 3 A levels, or equivalent, including maths and physics
- a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study
Career path and progression
You'll usually start as a post-doctoral researcher before moving on to permanent posts that can lead to becoming a university professor.
You can transfer your science skills across lots of careers and sectors, for example:
- aerospace research and development
- satellite engineering
- systems analysis
- software engineering
- teaching and lecturing
- science communication
- finance
Career tips
You can join an amateur astronomy group and attend astronomy summer schools to share your interest in space, make connections and get hands-on observation experience.
Guides for this industry
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