Are you interested in the study of stars, moons, planets and comets? But not sure where to start!
In this guide, we will explore about career in Astronomy, courses, eligibility criteria, and job opportunities.
Let’s start with What is Astronomy?
“Astronomy is the branch of Physics that deals with the study of celestial bodies like planets, stars, and galaxies. It refers to the study of objects outside the earth’s atmosphere and their physical and chemical properties”.
The astronomy course is divided into:
- Observational Astronomy: It deals with gathering data using telescopes and instruments.
- Theoretical Astronomy: Developing models and simulations to explain celestial phenomena.
- Astrophysics: A branch of Physics relating to celestial bodies.
What is the job of an Astronomers ?
The Astronomers uses the principles of Mathematics and Physics to carry out research about the celestial objects such as planets, stars, galaxies, black holes, and universe as a whole.
They observe the skies using the telescopes and computer programs to analyze and collect data on the characteristics of planets, moons, stars and celestial objects.
Astronomers are the observers who discovers information about “How the universe works” from the planets in our solar system. The studies and research helps them in developing scientific theories about the functioning of the universe.
There are several branches of astronomy such as Astrophysics, Astrometeorology, Astrobiology, Astrogeology and Astrometry.
Also Check – How to become a Scientist
What is the best thing about astronomer
They discover things that nobody have seen ever. They utilize most of their time in researching activities related to celestial bodies.
The work of astronomer includes traveling, observing, writing research reports, reading, teaching students and conducting experiments.
How to become an Astronomer
- To become a professional Astronomer, a Ph.D degree is usually required.
- First, you have to complete your 10+2 examination under the science stream, especially in Mathematics & Physics.
- After that, you can join an undergraduate course in Astronomy or a BTech program in Electronics & communication engineering.
- Thereafter, you can join postgraduate degree in Physics or Astronomy.
- After competing master degree, you can pursue specialization in astronomy leading to Ph.D
Astronomy Courses in India
To pursue a career in Astronomy, candidates have to meet the mandatory education qualifications. Students having interest in Physics and Mathematics can opt various courses at UG and PG level.
Below we have mentioned the educational path to become a astronomer::
Bachelor’s Courses After 12th (Science Stream)
Have you completed your 12th?
- B.Sc in Astrophysics/Physics – 3 year full-time course
- B.Sc in Astronomy – 3 year full-time course
- B.Tech in Aerospace Engineering – 4 year full-time course
- B.Tech Electronics and Communication Engineering – 4 year full-time course
- B.Tech Electrical Engineering – 4 year full-time course
Also Check: Engineering Courses After 12th
Master’s Courses
Doctoral Courses
- PhD. in Astronomy (in a specialized discipline)
Integrated Courses
- Integrated M.Sc – Ph.D Programme in Physics and Astrophysics
- Integrated M.Tech – Ph.D (Tech.) programme in Astronomical Instrumentation
In addition to regular UG courses in Astronomy/Astrophysics. Candidates can make career in astronomy after completing B.Tech or B.E. courses such as B.Tech EC and B.Tech Electrical Engineering.
To become an astronomer, you are required to earn Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree in astronomy, physics or a related discipline that will be mandatory for researche and academic positions.
Eligibility Criteria
- For UG courses, candidates must complete 10+2 with Physics and Mathematics.
- For pursuing PG courses, candidates must hold a bachelor’s degree in a relevant disciple
Skills Required in an Astronomer
- Solid knowledge in Physics and Mathematics.
- Must have the knowledge of computer programmes and software.
- Good observation skills are required.
- Should have the capacity of solving complex problems and conducting research work.
- Ability to work with a team is required.
Admission Process
To get admission in the undergraduate astronomy courses, candidates have to qualify the entrance exams conducted at National or University level.
For admission in B.Sc programs CUET UG is accepted by the central universities in India. For admission to B.Tech JEE Main/Advanced is considered for admission.
For admission in top Institutes like IITs (Delhi, Bombay, Kanpur) JEE Advanced for UG Courses and GATE for PG courses.
Some top Universities/Institutes conduct their own entrance test such as IISC 2025 (Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore) that provides admission in B.Sc (Research) and various PG programs.
In order to take admission to PhD courses, you have to clear the GATE 2025/ UGC NET 2025 examination. You can also appear the JEST 2025 (Joint Entrance Screening Test) for admission into Ph.D course. After the completion of master’s degree, you can apply for this test.
Popular Entrance Exams:
Top Universites
The list of the top colleges offering courses in the field of Astronomy/Astrophysics are listed below:
- Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST), Thiruvananthapuram
- The Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIAP), Bangalore
- Indian Institute of Technology Madras
- Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi
- Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay
- Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur
- Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpu
- Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Mumbai
- Osmania University, Hyderabad
- Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore
- Raman Research Institute (RRI), Bangalore
- University of Delhi
Top Institute to pursue Astronomy courses abroad:
- California Institute of Technology (Caltech), USA
- Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics, USA
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), USA
- University of Cambridge, UK
- Max Planck Institute for Astronomy, Germany
Jobs & Career Opportunities
Astronomy offers promising career opportunities for the students, especially for those who want to explore the infinite mysteries of this universe.
A career in Astronomy is broadly divided into Theoretical or Observational domains. The theoretical research career is typically invloves gathering and analyzing data by using instruments like telescopes, cameras, satellites etc.
Candidates can pursue career in theoritical astronomy by pusuing master or PhD in Physics, Astrophysics or Astronomy.
The observational astronomy, deals with developing mathematical models and computer simulations.
Candidates can work as an astronomer or research scientist with space research organizations like ISRO, NASA, ESA and various other space agencies.
The job opportunities are also available in public and private organizations like Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC), Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA), NASA, Technology Information, Forecasting and Assessment Council (TIFAC) etc.
Candidates can also join research and faculty positions in various universities and colleges across the world. Technical graduates (B.Tech, M.Tech) degree holders can join private companies involved in space exploration.
The professionals can also work as a consultant, advisor and engineer in Space research programs, space device manufacturing companies and educational institutions.
Top Recruiters
- Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)
- Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)
- NASA
- SpaceX
- European Space Agency (ESA)
- Various Universities and Institutes across the world
Job Areas
- Research
- Industry
- Educational Institutions
Job Profile
- Research Scientist
- Astronaut
- Astronomer
- University Professor
Salary
What will my Salary be?
Salary in the field of astronomy depends upon your profession, educational qualification and experience.
In research domains, candidates typically starts their career as a research assistant, with a salary package of Rs. 4-5 LPA.
As a junior research fellow (JRF) one can earn an average annual compensation of INR 4-5 LPA.
Candidates starting their career as a scientist/researcher in ISRO, IIA typically make INR 7-9 LPA. The senior scientist having 5-8 years of experience, earn an average of INR 15-25 LPA.
In private sector, the researcher and scientist make anywhere between INR 12-18 LPA. Candidates working abroad, in NASA, ESA, SpaceX earn anywhere between $90,000 to $150,000.
Books & Study Materials
You can refer these books for the preparation of astronomy:
- Astronomy – A Beginner’s Guide to the Universe – Chaisson, McMillan
- A Companion to Astronomy and Astrophysics – Kenneth R.Lang
- Celestial Mechanics: The Waltz of the Planets – Alessandra Celletti, Ettore Perozzi
- Fundamental Astronomy – H.Karttunen P.Kroger, H.Oja M.Poutanen, K.J. Donne
- Astronomy Today – Chaisson, McMillan
For more information regarding Career in Astronomy, you may ask your queries below.
I am currently doing III year BE ECE. I want to pursue a career as an astronomer. As said in the article, whether i’ll be able to become a researcher instead of technician or an engineer. Can you tell me about the scope of asttonomy field for women in india.
Yes, to become a researcher Pursue master’s in Astrophysics or Astronomy. Once you are done with it, go for a master’s program, post that clear UGC NET and pursue a PhD program which will align you towards your career goal.