Astronomy is a vast and
fascinating challenge for mankind. Unlike other physical sciences one needs to
observe the universe as it actually is and maintain observed data carefully. If astronomy seems a rigorous science, it's because the
objective of astronomers is nothing less than to understand the nature of the
universe.
Is it for me?
Astronomy is one of the rare
branches of science which involves all the topics of science to come out with a
cumulative result. Be it physics, mathematics chemistry they all have a certain
role to play. Biology, geology and even meteorology come into the scene
whenever you are understanding an unknown heavenly body. The beauty of
astronomy lies in this very fact. It is incredible to see how physics or
chemistry come together to give out an astonishing result.
Having said that,
astronomers are highly intellectual with strong scientific knowledge. Astronomy
degree, nevertheless, is important for making a career in this field but one
should have equal command over all the scientific aspects. For an astronomer to
come with a research paper, a degree in astronomy is never enough. one should have
enough knowledge in physics, chemistry and mathematics and all the other
branches. And most importantly, the presence of mind to use knowledge in
proper application.
Hence a career in astronomy
is highly challenging but extremely exciting for it requires you exploit your
scientific side!
1.
Astrophysics:-
·
Physical Cosmology
·
High energy Astrophysics
·
Interstellar Astrophysics
·
Plasma Astrophysics
·
Relativistic Astrophysics
·
Solar Physics
·
Extragalactic Astronomy
·
Galactic Astronomy
·
Stellar Astronomy
·
Compact Objects
2. Planetary Science:-
·
Atmospheric Science
·
Exoplanetology:
·
Planetary Formation
·
Planetary Rings
·
Magnetospheres
·
Planetary surfaces
·
Small Solar System Bodies
3. Radio Astronomy
4. Astrobiology
5. Planetary interiors
6. Sub millimeter Astronomy
7. Infrared Astronomy
8. Optical Astronomy
9. Ultraviolet Astronomy
10. X-Ray
Astronomy
11. Gamma-Ray
Astronomy
12. Cosmic
Ray Astronomy
13. Neutrino
Astronomy
14. Gravitational
Wave Astronomy
15. Photometry
16. Spectroscopy
17. Astrometry
18. Archioastronomy
19. Astrochemistry
Where do astronomers work?
Many
astronomers go on to teach to a college or university. Some educational
institutes invite scientists and
observers to produce their research materials in classrooms for better
understanding of the subject. Faculty members may be called on to teach some
physics courses as well as astronomy courses. Because of their training, both
undergraduate and graduate, astronomers are well qualified for this expanded
role.
Observing and analyzing is
an important aspect of study of astronomy. So, astronomers go on to work in
observatories while some may do the job of analyzing and coming out with the
results.
Recent
university graduates start their careers at universities, colleges, and other
institutions with postdoctoral research positions and research associate ships
that allow full time for research.
In USA,
median salaries at universities and colleges depend upon the size, quality, and
competitiveness of the school. Starting salaries for assistant professors start
at about $50,000 for 9-10 months, the range for senior professors is
$80,000-100,000 for 9-10 months. Typical postdoc pay ranges between $35,000-45,000
per year. It is hoped that
future years will see a healthy and more equitable balance of men and women of
all races in astronomy.
