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Astronomer

Astronomers study planets, stars, galaxies and other objects in the observable universe and use this information for theoretical and practical purposes.

Astronomers usually perform either observational or theoretical tasks. They have three main areas of study: the movement and position of stars, planets, galaxies and other objects; their physical and chemical properties; and their origins and evolution.

Astronomers who need to make observations may need to travel long distances to observatories and may work long hours, often at night.

However, more time is spent using computers than personally observing with telescopes.

TASKS

Astronomers may perform the following tasks:

observe objects in space, from the Earth's surface and via orbiting satellites, using a wide range of specialised telescopes or detectors
design and attach special equipment to telescopes or spacecraft when necessary
make calculations using mathematical and physical principles to study the behaviour of matter and energy in the visible universe
record, analyse and compare results of observations using complex electronic and computer equipment
develop theories to explain recorded observations and make predictions, and express these as mathematical equations
attempt to understand the fundamental nature, origin and evolution of the universe
investigate the formation and evolution of the solar system
use computers to produce star catalogues and tables of measurements for use in navigation, surveying, time determination and other disciplines
develop instruments and detectors for all radiation (radio, infra-red, optical, X-ray, gamma ray and cosmic ray, for example) observed from the Earth's surface or via spacecraft
present the results of their work at scientific meetings and publish them in relevant scientific journals

PERSONAL REQUIREMENTS

imagination
patience
an inquisitive mind
interested in mathematics, computing and physics
good oral and written communication skills

Interest Area

EDUCATION & TRAINING

To become an astronomer you usually have to complete a degree in science at university with a major in astronomy, physics or astrophysics (preferably at honours level), followed by a postgraduate qualification in astronomy or astrophysics.

To get into the degree courses you usually need to gain your HSC/ACT Year 12. Prerequisite subjects, or assumed knowledge, in one or more of English, biology, chemistry, earth and environmental science, mathematics and physics are normally required.

A number of universities in Australia offer degrees in these areas. Entry to postgraduate courses usually requires completion of an appropriate bachelor degree.

Universities have different prerequisites and some have flexible entry requirements or offer external study. Contact the universities you are interested in for more information as requirements may change.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Most astronomers work in government agencies, such as the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO); in observatories, including the Australia Telescope National Facility (for radio astronomers) and the Australian Astronomical Observatory (for optical astronomers); or in universities.

These posts usually incorporate an element of teaching, administration or instrumentation design and development.

Many astronomers find work in related fields such as physics, applied mathematics and computing, and it is advisable to complete an additional major in one of these fields. Demand for this occupation is influenced by the level of government funding for research, capital investment and the opportunity for overseas research.

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