Astronomer
Look at stars, planets and galaxies to help us understand more about how the universe works.
About the job
What it's like
You would observe and study huge stars and planets or tiny particles in space to help us understand more about how the universe works.
You'd take part in big research projects to look at objects and events in space. You'd collect data from the research and work out what it tells us about the origin and structure of the universe.
You'd use computers, optical and radio telescopes, spectroscopes, satellites, spacecraft and space probes to collect and analyse information.
You would:
Set up instruments to observe and measure features in space
Chart the appearance, position and movement, and structures of the sun, stars, planets and galaxies
Measure radiation coming from stars, planets, quasars and other matter in space
Develop models and use computer programs to interpret your findings
Describe and explain your findings
Make predictions and test them, perhaps developing new instruments or software for this
Keep detailed logs and records, and write reports
Keep the observatory in good condition and supervise the way it is run
You might specialise in observational and theoretical astronomy or focus on a particular topic, like planetary science or the formation of galaxies.
As well as working in laboratories and observatories, you could also work in a museum or planetarium, or teach and carry out research at a university.
You'd normally study for a postgraduate qualification such as a PhD when you are working as a professional astronomer. You'd go to conferences and keep up to date with new ideas and evidence.
Hours
You could work long and irregular hours, including weekends, evenings and nights, depending on the project you are part of and the observations you are making.
Travel
Your work is likely to include frequent travel to meetings and conferences, and to visit observatories within the UK and overseas. This could include travel to Europe, the USA and South America.
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Top skills
Skills are things you're good at. Whether you know what yours are or not, everyone has them!
It's useful to learn which ones are important in a job so you know the areas you need to brush up on. It can also help you work out if you're suited to a career.
Meta skills
Here are some of the meta skills you'll need to do this job.
- understanding
- analysing
- filtering
- attention to detail
- researching
- observation
- problem solving
- evaluating
- working with technology
Your skills are important
Our unique skillsets are what make us stand out from the crowd. Learn about each skill in depth and discover what employers look for in your applications and interviews.
Getting in
Explore each section to find more information about getting into this career.
Colleges and universities will list subjects you'll need for entry to a course. Some useful subjects include:
Computing Science
Maths (Mathematics)
Physics
Science
Applications of Mathematics
You would need an honours degree and postgraduate qualifications in astronomy or astrophysics (SCQF level 10 and 11). Some universities offer an Integrated Masters combining the degree and postgraduate courses over 5 years.
To enter an astronomy or astrophysics degree (SCQF Level 10) you need National 5 qualifications and Highers at AAAA or AAABB in first sitting or AAAAAB in two sittings.
Some universities may accept lower grades, such as BBBB, if you can demonstrate a deep interest, relevant skills and experience in astronomy and sciences.
Some universities may offer entry to the second year of a degree if you have Advanced Highers (SCQF level 7), a Scottish Baccalaureate in Science (SCQF level 7) or a relevant Higher National Certificate (SCQF level 7) or Higher National Diploma (SCQF level 8).
It may be possible to move into this field with a background in computer science, maths or from some branches of chemistry or engineering.
An Open University Certificate in Astronomy and Planetary Science with flexible hours is available full-time over one year or part-time over two years.
Once in work or qualified, registration with Royal Astronomical Society and/or membership of Science Council may be of value.
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