Astronomer

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 professor.

You can transfer your science skills across lots of careers and sectors, for example:

• aerospace research and development
• satellite research and development
• systems analysis
• software engineering
• teaching and lecturing
• science communication
• finance

What it takes

Skills and knowledge

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
• concentration skills
• to have a thorough understanding of computer systems and applications

Related subjects

Most relevant

• Physics - Astronomers rely on physics to understand how stars, planets, galaxies, and black holes behave. Concepts like gravity, light, radiation, electromagnetism, and thermodynamics are fundamental to explaining everything from how stars form to how the universe expands.
• Mathematics - Astronomers use advanced mathematics constantly – from calculating the orbits of planets to modelling the behaviour of entire galaxies. Statistics, calculus, and algebra are essential for analysing data, testing theories, and making predictions about events in space.
• Computer Science - Astronomers develop software to interpret images and data captured by satellites and telescopes, and build computer models to simulate events like galaxy collisions or star formation. Programming skills and computational thinking are essential tools in modern astronomy research.

Also relevant

• Chemistry - Astronomers use spectroscopy to identify the chemical composition of stars, planets, and interstellar gas clouds. Understanding how elements form, react, and emit light helps them work out what distant objects are made of and how they evolved.
• Geography - Astronomers studying planets and moons draw on knowledge of physical processes like volcanism, atmospheric circulation, and surface erosion. Understanding how these processes work on Earth helps when interpreting data from other worlds in our solar system and beyond.
• Engineering - Astronomers design and maintain complex instruments like telescopes, detectors, and satellite equipment. Understanding engineering principles helps them develop new observation tools and solve practical problems with the hardware they depend on for their research.
• Electronics - Astronomers work with sensitive electronic detectors, radio receivers, and imaging sensors that capture signals from space. Understanding how electronic systems work helps them calibrate instruments, reduce interference, and get the most accurate data possible.
• English Language - Astronomers write detailed research papers, grant applications, and reports to share their findings with the scientific community and the public. Being able to communicate complex ideas clearly is important when presenting discoveries or explaining their significance.