Occupation Details
Astronomers
Observe, research, and interpret astronomical phenomena to increase basic knowledge or apply such information to practical problems.
Quick Navigation
Interests
Realistic
Realistic occupations frequently involve work activities that include practical, hands-on problems and solutions. They often deal with plants, animals, and real-world materials like wood, tools, and machinery. Many of the occupations require working outside, and do not involve a lot of paperwork or working closely with others.
Investigative
Investigative occupations frequently involve working with ideas, and require an extensive amount of thinking. These occupations can involve searching for facts and figuring out problems mentally.
Artistic
Artistic occupations frequently involve working with forms, designs and patterns. They often require self-expression and the work can be done without following a clear set of rules.
Work Values
Achievement
Occupations that satisfy this work value are results oriented and allow employees to use their strongest abilities, giving them a feeling of accomplishment. Corresponding needs are Ability Utilization and Achievement.
Recognition
Occupations that satisfy this work value offer advancement, potential for leadership, and are often considered prestigious. Corresponding needs are Advancement, Authority, Recognition and Social Status.
Independence
Occupations that satisfy this work value allow employees to work on their own and make decisions. Corresponding needs are Creativity, Responsibility and Autonomy.
Salary & Job Outlook
Starting Salary
$50,410.00
New York StateMedian Salary
$80,950.00
New York StateExperienced Salary
$110,070.00
New York StateNational Average for Comparison
New York State Job Market Outlook
Jobs Right Now (2018)
11,230
professionals in NYFuture Job Growth (2030)
13,590
+236 jobs/yearNew Jobs Every Year
1,334
new opportunities yearlyGrowth Rate
0.2%
projected increasePreparation: Experience, Training, and Education
The list below outlines the prior educational experience required to perform in this occupation.
More School - Graduate or advanced degree
Experience Requirements
Extensive skill, knowledge, and experience are needed for these occupations. Many require more than five years of experience. For example, surgeons must complete four years of college and an additional five to seven years of specialized medical training to be able to do their job.
Education Requirements
Most of these occupations require graduate school. For example, they may require a master's degree, and some require a Ph.D., M.D., or J.D. (law degree).
Training Details
Employees may need some on-the-job training, but most of these occupations assume that the person will already have the required skills, knowledge, work-related experience, and/or training.
Transferrable Skills and Experience
These occupations often involve coordinating, training, supervising, or managing the activities of others to accomplish goals. Very advanced communication and organizational skills are required. Examples include pharmacists, lawyers, astronomers, biologists, clergy, physician assistants, and veterinarians.
School Programs
The following lists school programs which are applicable to this occupation.
Licensing & Certification
State License and Certifications Requirements are not currently associated with this occupation.
Skills
The list below includes the skills required by workers in this occupation; skills are what allow you to learn more quickly and improve your performance.
Reading Comprehension
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
Science
Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
Critical Thinking
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
Writing
Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
Mathematics
Using mathematics to solve problems.
Active Learning
Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
Speaking
Talking to others to convey information effectively.
Skill level is measured on a seven point scale, where one means 'some competence required for this occupation' and seven means 'a high level of expertise required for this occupation'.
Knowledge
The list below includes knowledge items, the principles and facts required by this occupation.
Mathematics
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
Physics
Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships, and applications to understanding fluid, material, and atmospheric dynamics, and mechanical, electrical, atomic and sub-atomic structures and processes.
Computers and Electronics
Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
English Language
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
Engineering and Technology
Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.
Education and Training
Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
Chemistry
Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances and of the chemical processes and transformations that they undergo. This includes uses of chemicals and their interactions, danger signs, production techniques, and disposal methods.
Knowledge level is measured on a seven point scale, where one means 'some competence required for this occupation' and seven means 'a high level of expertise required for this occupation'.
Work Environment
The list below includes the physical and social factors that influence the nature of work in this occupation.
Hover over or tap each factor to see its description.
Work Styles
Included in the list below are the personal work style characteristics that can affect how well a worker is likely to perform in this occupation.
Achievement/Effort
Job requires establishing and maintaining personally challenging achievement goals and exerting effort toward mastering tasks.
Adaptability/Flexibility
Job requires being open to change (positive or negative) and to considerable variety in the workplace.
Analytical Thinking
Job requires analyzing information and using logic to address work-related issues and problems.
Attention to Detail
Job requires being careful about detail and thorough in completing work tasks.
Independence
Job requires developing one's own ways of doing things, guiding oneself with little or no supervision, and depending on oneself to get things done.
Initiative
Job requires a willingness to take on responsibilities and challenges.
Innovation
Job requires creativity and alternative thinking to develop new ideas for and answers to work-related problems.
Integrity
Job requires being honest and ethical.
Persistence
Job requires persistence in the face of obstacles.
Stress Tolerance
Job requires accepting criticism and dealing calmly and effectively with high-stress situations.
Tools & Technology
This list below describes the machines, equipment, tools, software, and information technology that workers in this occupation will use.
Tools
- Atomic absorption AA spectroscopes
- Automated telescopes
- Ball mills
- Baseband recorders
- Charge-coupled device CCD imagers
- Cryostats
- Desktop computers
- Differential scanning calorimeters
- Dobsonian telescopes
- Doppler Rayleigh laser imaging ranging and detecting LIDAR systems
- Echelle spectrometers
- Electron beam ion traps EBIT
- European VLBI Network EVN telescopes
- Fourier transform infrared FTIR spectrometers
- High powered binoculars
- High resolution spectrographs
- Interferometers
- Laptop computers
- Laser imaging detection and ranging LIDAR systems
- Multi-object spectrographs MOS
- Near-infrared integral field spectrometers
- Optical interferometers
- Optical telescopes
- Personal computers
- Photometer
- Planetary radar transmitters
- Pulsar processors
- Radio antennas
- Refracting telescopes
- Resonance fluorescence laser imaging detection and ranging LIDAR systems
Technology
- Abstraction plus reference plus synthesis A++
- Analyze
- Apache Hadoop
- Astronomical information processing system AIPS++
- Avis Fits Viewer
- C++
- European Southern Observatory Munich Image Data Analysis System ESO-MIDAS
- Formula translation/translator FORTRAN
- IBM SPSS Statistics
- IRIS
- Interface definition language IDL
- Linux
- MSB Software Astroart
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office
- Microsoft PowerPoint
Duties
Duties are job behaviors describing activities that occur on multiple jobs. The generalized and detailed work activities described in the list below apply to this occupation.
- adhere to safety procedures
- maintain records, reports, or files
- prepare reports
- prepare technical reports or related documentation
- advise clients or customers
- advise governmental or industrial personnel
- direct and coordinate scientific research or investigative studies
- direct and coordinate activities of workers or staff
- write research or project grant proposals
- develop plans for programs or projects
- plan scientific research or investigative studies
- record test results, test procedures, or inspection data
- confer with research personnel
- communicate technical information
- make presentations
- confer with scientists
- explain complex mathematical information
- write scholarly or technical research papers
- present research papers or dissertations on physical science issues
- use scientific research methodology
- use teaching techniques
- use knowledge of investigation techniques
- use mathematical or statistical methods to identify or analyze problems
- use physical science research techniques
- use quantitative research methods
- use library or online Internet research techniques
- develop tables depicting data
- classify plants, animals, or other natural phenomena
- develop scientific or mathematical hypotheses, theories, or laws
- design equipment, apparatus, or instruments for scientific research
- make decisions
- resolve engineering or science problems
- collect scientific or technical data
- collect statistical data
- analyze scientific research data or investigative findings
- conduct field research or investigative studies
- conduct nuclear research
- perform statistical analysis in physical science or geological research
- forecast or predict phenomena based upon research data
- conduct research on astronomical phenomenon
- identify positions of celestial bodies for navigational purposes
- conduct research into the relationship between time or space
- use computers to enter, access or retrieve data
- use relational database software
- use spreadsheet software
- use word processing or desktop publishing software
- develop or maintain databases
Tasks
The list below outlines specific tasks that a worker in this occupation is called upon to do regularly.
- Present research findings at scientific conferences and in papers written for scientific journals.
- Mentor graduate students and junior colleagues.
- Analyze research data to determine its significance, using computers.
- Collaborate with other astronomers to carry out research projects.
- Study celestial phenomena, using a variety of ground-based and space-borne telescopes and scientific instruments.
- Supervise students' research on celestial and astronomical phenomena.
- Raise funds for scientific research.
- Teach astronomy or astrophysics.
- Measure radio, infrared, gamma, and x-ray emissions from extraterrestrial sources.
- Develop instrumentation and software for astronomical observation and analysis.
- Review scientific proposals and research papers.
- Develop theories based on personal observations or on observations and theories of other astronomers.
- Calculate orbits and determine sizes, shapes, brightness, and motions of different celestial bodies.
- Serve on professional panels and committees.
- Develop and modify astronomy-related programs for public presentation.
- Conduct question-and-answer presentations on astronomy topics with public audiences.
- Direct the operations of a planetarium.
Learning Resources
More information on this occupation may be found in the links provided below.
Alfred University: Summer Institute in Astronomy
This exciting residential program is designed for high school students who love astronomy and want to spend time learning more about this fascinating subject with other students who share their passion. The Astronomy Institute is conducted at the Stull Observatory on the Alfred University Campus. This facility has been judged to be one of the best teaching observatories in the country.
Learn MoreAmazing Space
Amazing Space uses the Hubble Space Telescope's discoveries to inspire and educate about the wonders of our universe. Find all the classic Amazing Space activities. Get to know our vast universe by exploring its planets, galaxies, comets, black holes, and more. The online explorations, adventures and highlights of the month's stars are available with teacher tools.
Learn MoreAmerican Astronomical Society (AAS)
The American Astronomical Society (AAS) is primarily a society of researchers in astronomy. Established in 1899, it is the major organization of professional astronomers in North America. The basic objective of the AAS is to promote the advancement of astronomy and closely related branches of science.
Learn MoreAstronomy Education Review
A site that makes it easy to find, read about, and use new ideas and resources for teaching and outreach in astronomy and space sciences from fifth grade classrooms to research laboratories.
Learn MoreChallenge Day Camp 2007
Dedicated to enrichment opportunities, Challenge is known for its creative and innovative course offerings including Adventures in the Lab 1 and 2, Fantastic Flying Models, The Common Denominator, LegoMania, Science Art and more.
Learn MoreChallenge Day Camp: Westchester County, New York
Dedicated to enrichment opportunities, Challenge is known for its creative and innovative course offerings including: LegoMania, Mechanical Marvels, Awesome, Magical and Edible Experiments,Positively Puzzled,Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs and more.
Learn MoreCool Cosmos: The Infrared Universe
Learn about Infrared Light and Multiwavelength Astronomy. Discover light outside the visible spectrum with many the classroom activities, experiments and lesson plans provided for you at Cool Cosmos!
Learn MoreCornell University Summer College Program: Focus on the Sciences
Focus on the Sciences is designed especially for students who are passionate about subjects from astronomy to biology and who just can't wait to get to college to undertake in-depth scientific exploration. You?ll earn an average of six to eight credits and get advanced lab work under your lab coat while maybe figuring out what you want to study in college.
Learn MoreCosmic Journey: A History of Scientific Cosmology
From the ancient Greeks to the Hubble Space Telescope - the story of the colorful individuals, startling ideas and ingenious tools that brought us knowledge of the vast and strange universe we inhabit. Written by leading historians of astronomy and richly illustrated.
Learn MoreDiscovery Channel School's Lesson Plans Library
View the list of brand-new lesson plans for elementary, middle and high school students. Lesson plans include the sciences, mathematics and technology. Hundreds of original lesson plans, all written by teachers for teachers are easily accessible. Use the pull-down menus to browse by subject, grade, or both.
Learn MoreDiscovery School's Science Fair Central
So you're going to do a science fair project! Science Fair Central: Creative Investigations into the Real World contains helpful links including a comprehensive guide to creating your science fair project, Janice VanCleave's winning science fair project help guide with helpful resources and project ideas listing project topics to help you get started.
Learn MoreFrom Stargazers to Starships
From Stargazers to Starships is an introduction to the apparent motion of the Sun across the sky and the way it changes in summer and winter. The students will recognize the daily motion of the Sun across the sky, defining the main directions of east, west, south and north, the locations of sunrise and sunset (for viewers north of the equator) migrate southward in the winter and northward in the summer, changing the length of the day and causing summers to be warmer, winters colder and more.
Learn MoreHubbleSite The Space Telescope
HubbleSite furthers our knowledge of astronomy. Scan the heavens, see how Hubble's observations have expanded our understanding of the cosmos, and get the facts: answers to the basic questions about astronomy and Hubble, figures and charts, and dictionary definitions for astronomical terms.
Learn MoreImagine the Universe
Imagine the Universe site is intended for students age 14 and up, and for anyone interested in learning about our universe. Teachers may choose from a number of lesson plans for grades 6-12 that use mathematics in the study of various science topics.
Learn MoreImagine the Universe
Imagine the Universe is intended for students age 14 and up, and for anyone interested in learning about our universe, teachers may choose from a number of lesson plans for grades 6 to12 that use mathematics in the study of various science topics.
Learn MoreKopernik Talent Search (KTS)
The Kopernik Space Education Center offers a sequence of K12 programs for students highly interested in science and technology through the Kopernik Talent Search (KTS). KTS encourages young people to work and to think like scientists as they explore the world around them. Kopernik students discover the excitement of hands on learning at one of the best K12 science lab complexes available.
Learn MoreLiveScience
LiveScience is an original content site focusing on the innovative and intriguing in Science and Technology. The website covers news, views and scientific inquiry from an original, provocative point of view. With articles by respected science journalists and contributors, LiveScience looks at new discoveries, intellectual adventures and the idiosyncrasies of the world that surrounds us. The main topics include Animal Domain, Health SciTech, Forces of Nature, Environment, Technology and Science of Fiction.
Learn MoreMars Millennium Project
The countdown to a new century provides a unique opportunity to engage America's youth in charting a course for the future. The Mars Millennium Project, an official White House Millennium Council Youth Initiative, challenges students across the nation to design a community yet to be imagined - for the planet Mars. This interdisciplinary learning project will engage kindergarten through high-school students in classrooms and youth groups throughout the United States.
Learn MoreNASA Kids Page
Reliable information on space related topics that include art, stories, games and activities for kids.
Learn MoreNASA: Kids Page
Reliable information on space-related topics that include art, stories, games and activities for kids.
Learn MoreNew York State Science Olympiad
The Science Olympiad is an international nonprofit organization devoted to improving the quality of science education, increasing student interest in science and providing recognition for outstanding achievement in science education by both students and teachers.The State competition in New York consists of B(grades 6 to 9) and C (grades 9 to 12) Divisions with all of the official Science Olympiad events plus two Trial/Pilot events during the Spring months.
Learn MorePhysicists and astronomers
Visit this link for additional information on this career from the Occupational Outlook Handbook; a publication produced and maintained by the United States Department of Labor.
Learn MorePre-College Experience in Physics(PREP): To Encourage the Participation of Women in Science
PREP is a summer science program that students will learn about the "laws of physics" by seeing them in action,see how these skills and concepts relate to real life and meet real scientists as an exploration of scientific careers.
Learn MoreRader's Cosmos4Kids
Cosmos4Kids.com is a website that teaches the basics of astronomy and space exploration to all ages. It has sections on the universe, galaxies, systems, the Solar System, space exploration and missions.
Learn MoreSUNY New Paltz Summer Camp: Mad Science NASA
Mad Science has sparked imaginative learning with their unique brand of engaging and educational live programs and activities. NASA - Learn how different kinds of flying machines work as you explore the principles that we use to move ourselves through the air. Launch several kinds of rockets and use tools for celestial navigation to track their flight path.
Learn MoreSpace Science Education Resource Directory
The Space Science Education Resource Directory is a convenient way to find NASA space science products for use in classrooms, science museums, planetariums, and other settings. There are several ways to search in the Resource Directory: "Grade/Subject," "Topic," or "Custom Search." The Solar System, Light and Color and Black Holes are some topics.
Learn MoreSt. Joseph's College High School Program - Experiences in Scientific Research
This four Saturday program features one Saturday of each of the following: new experiments in chemistry, polymer chemistry, physiology experiences, microbiology wonders, physics challenges, astronomy adventures and finally, forensic science, artistry in science with a detective guest speaker on this day during lunch time.
Learn MoreStarChild, A Learning Center for Young Astronomers
Easy to navigate astronomer specific information (Solar System, the Universe, Space Stuff, and a Glossary) site useful for teaching and learning.
Learn MoreStarChild: A Learning Center for Young Astronomers
Easy to navigate astronomer specific information (Solar System, the Universe, Space Stuff, and a Glossary) site useful for teaching and learning.
Learn MoreSummer Astronomy Institutes
These institutes give students the opportunity to learn more about astronomy.The Institutes will cover topics such as:Astronomical Basics,Variable Star Photometry ,Asteroid Astrometry and Photometry ,Astronomical Imaging of Nebulae,Lunar Geology ,Solar Flares and more.
Learn MoreUniversity of Rochester's Pre College Experience in Physics(PREP), To Encourage the Participation of Women in Science
PREP, a summer science program encourages young women's interest in the sciences. It provides an introduction to physics through a sequence of hands on, inquiry driven laboratory activities with experienced instructors.
Learn MoreWindows to the Universe
Windows to the Universe is a user-friendly learning system covering the Earth and Space sciences. It includes a rich array of documents, including images, movies, animations, and data sets, that explore the Earth and Space sciences and the historical and cultural ties between science, exploration, and the human experience.
Learn MoreYoung Naturalist Awards: Essay Contest
This research based essay contest is for students in grades 7 to12. It promotes participation and communication in science. The theme remains the same, "Scientific Discovery Begins with Expeditions!" Students choose a topic in biology, earth science, or astronomy and take an expedition to an area where they can explore their topic.
Learn More