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Why study astronomy?

Why study astronomy at university? What careers does it lead to and how can you specialise? We take a look at this interesting course and what it has to offer.

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Have you ever looked up at the night sky and wanted to know more about everything you can and can’t see up there? Astronomy is a fascinating field of study and is a course that can be found at a number of universities all over the world. Here is everything you need to know about this subject.

 

What is astronomy?

 

Astronomy is the study of the universe; the stars, galaxies, comets, planets etc.The characteristics of these celestial objects are observed and studied.. The field of astronomy is huge, given its nature, and there are still so many things about the universe that have yet to be discovered.

 

Divided primarily into observational astronomy and theoretical astronomy, the former is focused on collecting and analysing the data from observing these objects, while the latter looks at the development of models to better describe astronomical objects and the phenomena that takes place. Today, astronomy is closely linked with astrophysics and the terms are even used interchangeably. 

 

Previously, most of the astronomical work was done at night through a telescope, today with digital imaging, many astronomers spend most of their days in front of a computer analysing large amounts of data. Your work as an astronomer might take you to different locations around the globe - and maybe even off it! 

 

Study route

 

A bachelor’s degree in Astronomy is usually awarded as a BSc, but occasionally, some universities offer it as both a bachelor of science and arts, such as the University of Texas at Austin. Students can consider taking degrees that combine both the sciences and arts. The field of astronomy is often studied in tandem with other sciences such as physics or chemistry and mathematics.

 

Typically, a bachelor’s degree in astronomy will take between three to four years to complete. A master’s will likely take  another one or two years. The subject is taught through lectures, tutorials and practical seminars that will allow students to visit observatories and get a better understanding of an astronomer’s work first hand.

 

You will be taught how to use various instruments such as catalogues, telescopes, start charts and computer-based images. Students are assessed usually via research projects, written assignments, and practical tests. Many, if not all, astronomy degree programmes will include core physics modules and these will cover topics such as Newtonian dynamics, electromagnetism and atomic physics.

 

Some of the other common modules that you might study on an astronomy degree are:

 

  • Astronomy Computing  

  • The Solar System

  • The Contents of Our Galaxy      

  • Extragalactic Astronomy & Cosmology

  • The History of Astronomy

 

What are the entry requirements for an astronomy course?

 

Excellent grades for A levels and between 34-38 points for the IB diploma. Interested applicants will need to have taken physics and mathematics at A level.

 

While no prior background in astronomy is required, it is beneficial to take some related classes when you’re in high school to demonstrate your passion for the subject. However, a strong foundation in and aptitude for physics and mathematics is needed for students to do well in this subject. 

 

Astronomy specialisations

 

There are many variations and even degree combinations on all kinds of astronomy topics that you can choose to specialise in depending on the university. We’ve shortlisted some of the more common ones below:

 

Cosmology

 

A subject available at univerities like the University of Portsmouth, in the UK, cosmology, is the study of the cosmos, it looks at the evolution of the universe; how it began, and its basic structure. This field is different from general astronomy, because it is interested in the universe as a whole, whereas the latter is concerned with individual celestial objects. 

 

Astrophysics

 

Astrophysicists study the physics and properties of celestial objects, such as the stars, different planets, galaxies and how these things behave. There are many interesting areas of study within these fields such as dark matter, dark energy, and black holes that even the public are intrigued by. Concepts like the possibility of time travel, formation of wormholes or if the multiverse exists and the beginning and ending of the universe. Those who are looking to study this subject in Australia will be pleased to know that this course can be found at The University of Adelaide.

 

Astrobiology

 

Offered by universities such as Florida Institute of Technology, astrobiology is mainly concerned with the origins, evolution, and the possible future of lifeforms in the universe, both on Earth and on other planets. This unique, interdisciplinary field also involves the search for habitable environments that exist within and beyond our own solar system. This specialisation will appeal the most to those who have a strong urge to look for extraterrestrial life.

 

Solar astrophysics

 

In this particular field, you will be exploring the properties and behaviour of the sun and apply this knowledge to advance understanding of how other stars and systems work.The work of a solar physicist is vital, as scientists believe that any changes in the solar atmosphere or activity can impact the Earth’s climate.

 

Planetary geology

 

Planetary geologists apply geological studies to understand the composition and behaviours of celestial objects such as planets, moons, asteroids, comets etc. It is closely linked to the geology of the earth. So if you love studying geography and astronomy, this is the field that lets you study both. A course that specialises in this field can be found at Central Connecticut State University


 

What is a typical day in the life of an astronomer?

 

A typical day of an astronomer would include developing and testing out scientific theories, analysing data and writing research proposals. You will also be spending time coming up with scientific papers and presenting your findings to others within the field, in symposiums and conferences etc. Most astronomers work in a team and you start off with a more senior astronomer.

 

What career can an astronomy degree lead to?

 

Graduates typically pursue specialised astronomy careers. These careers are mainly research-based roles that require students to complete a PhD or a master’s degree. So, where are these research-based roles located? Astronomers can work in many different places. We’ve shortlisted the most common ones below: 

 

Universities

 

There are many positions open for an astronomy graduate in a university, you can opt to work as a research associate or as a lecturer in astronomy. Working in a university will grant you access to various laboratories, libraries, and other facilities to help you carry out your research.  More often than not, research-based roles in these institutions come with teaching responsibilities. It is highly likely that you will be spending time delivering lectures and supporting students when you’re not performing your research.

 

Observatories

 

If you love operating equipment, then working in an observatory might just be the right place for you. Jobs in observatories are mostly research-based. This means that you’ll be collecting data from the equipment, analysing and interpreting the data. You could also be an astronomer partner, where you will work collaboratively with schools and universities to educate students. Graduates can also choose to work as a telescope operator and be in charge of all the telescopes and equipment in the observatory, however, you will need to have mechanical and optical skills to qualify for this job.

 

Planetariums and museums

 

If you love interacting with people and spreading your passion for astronomy, and are not interested in further research, then you can consider working in either a planetarium or museum. As an astronomer in these organisations, you are responsible for the development and delivery of planetarium shows, coordinating, and communicating the programming of the planetarium and the maintenance of the technology and content. In some planetariums and museums, you might be required to give school workshops, planetarium shows, special events and support the other activities of the organisation such as the development and planning of exhibitions and digital resources.

 

Government research organisations

 

Want to work in a national research organisation such as National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)? You can. However, competition is stiff in places such as NASA and National Institute for Earth Sciences and Astronomy (INSU) in France. You will need a PhD and have some additional research experience first to qualify.

 

Aerospace sector

 

Don’t want a career in research? Consider working in the aerospace industry. You will be recruited to help research, design and maintain various types of aircraft and spacecraft. Potential employers include Boeing, Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman.

 

Other industries

 

Love astronomy, but want to strike out on your own in a field different from your peers? The strong numeracy, computer and data-handling skills that you’ve developed during your degree are in high demand in many sectors such as media and communications, finance and accounting.

 

Like writing? Then merge both of your passions together and be a writer for astronomy, report on the latest industry findings, explain the basics all to a captive audience!

 

Skills that you will develop during the course of the programme:

 

  • Technical expertise

  • Data analysis

  • Numeracy

  • Problem-solving

  • Research skills

  • Communication skills

  • Teamwork

 

How much does an astronomer earn?

 

Based on a report by the Bureau Labour of Statistics, the average salary of an astronomer is $104,100 as of 2015.

 

Best places to study astronomy:

 

In the US

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

Princeton University

Stanford University

California Institute of Technology (Caltech)

 

In the UK

University of Cambridge

University of Oxford

Imperial College London

 

Aside from the universities listed above, these countries also have robust astronomy programmes- Sweden, Canada, Germany, New Zealand, The Netherlands, and Ireland.

 

We hope this article has helped you gain a better understanding of the vast and intriguing field of astronomy and the different types of specialisation that you can choose.

 

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