Astronomer
Study the stars, planets and galaxies to help us understand more about our universe.
About the job
What it's like
Looking for a career that's, quite literally, out of this world? As an astronomer, you'll observe and study space – from enormous stars and planets to tiny particles.
Your work will help us understand more about the way our universe works. You'll take part in big research projects that look at objects and events in space. The data you collect will tell you all sorts of cool facts about the origin and structure of the universe.
Astronomers use a range of cutting-edge methods to collect and analyse information. For example, you'll work with computers, optical and radio telescopes, spectroscopes, satellites, spacecraft and space probes.
Some people specialise in observational and theoretical astronomy. Others focus on a particular topic, like planetary science or the formation of galaxies.
But astronomers aren't just based in laboratories or observatories! You may work in a museum or planetarium. Some astronomers also move into university lecturing.
Space is constantly evolving – so, you'll attend conferences to stay up-to-date with the latest ideas and evidence.
Your tasks might include:
setting up instruments to observe and measure features in space
charting the appearance, position, movement and structures of the sun, stars, planets and galaxies
measuring radiation coming from stars, planets, quasars and other matter in space
developing models and using computer programs to interpret your findings – you'll then describe and explain them to other people
making predictions and testing them, perhaps you'll develop new instruments or software that'll help you do this
keeping the observatory in good condition and supervising the way it's run
Explore more information about this job
Here are some useful links to learn more about this career:
Royal Astronomical Society – explore this organisation that encourages and promotes the study of astronomy
The Science Council – check out the standard-setter for professional scientists
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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:
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Computing Science
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Maths (Mathematics)
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Physics
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Science
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Applications of Mathematics
You'll need a degree to become an astronomer.
Let's explore the routes you can take to achieve this.
University
You should have an undergraduate degree in a relevant subject, such as:
Physics
Astrophysics
Astronomy
Mathematics
Space Science
Entry to these courses is highly competitive. You'll need strong school or college grades to be accepted.
Most astronomers then go on to earn a PhD (Doctorate) in Astronomy, Astrophysics or a related area. Having a PhD is essential if you want to progress into a research-based or academic position, such as a lecturer.
Use the My World of Work course search to find degrees and PhDs.
College
Getting qualifications at college, such as an HNC or HND, could help you progress to more advanced study. Useful subjects include:
Applied Sciences
Physical Sciences
Applied Physics
Engineering Systems
Scottish Wider Access Programme (SWAP)
If you're an adult looking to get back into education, consider the Scottish Widening Access Programme (SWAP). It offers routes to university by learning at college first.
If you don't have a degree and have been out of education for at least three years, you may be eligible. You can read more about eligibility on the SWAP website.
Use the My World of Work course search to look for Maths, Physics or Science SWAP courses.
Joining an amateur astronomy group allows you to share your interest in space, make connections and get hands-on observation experience.
Once you're working as an astronomer, it's a good idea to register with the Royal Astronomical Society or become a member of the Science Council.
Volunteering in a relevant role can help you build some of the skills and experience you’ll need to become an astronomer. Use Volunteer Scotland to search for opportunities as a guide or assistant at planetariums, observatories and science centres.
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