Becoming an Astronaut

Astronomy is the study of the universe and everything it contains such as the stars, the planets, the comets, the asteroids and other celestial bodies. Astronomers observe the movement of these bodies and then analyze the results of their observations. Astrophysics is a specialty concerned with the atmosphere around the earth.

The job:

Astronomy is one of the oldest sciences, beating from ancient civilization. It was concentrated on stars and stellar movement, however, now astronomers study all natural features of the universe.

Astronomers observe the structure of heavenly bodies, their size, shape, and brightness, their position and movements, and changes to any of these. Originally, astronomers could use only ground-based telescopes, now they also have radio telescopes, space probes, satellites, and an orbiting telescope.

Astronomers use their findings to propose the potential origins of the universe, to predict changes in the behavior of objects in space, and to provide services for use by other people-for example, navigational almanacs. The development of space programs has brought a further use for astronomy. The knowledge of astronomers provide on the makeup of outer space is essential for planners of manned and unmanned space missions. Some astronomers rarely use a telescope; instead, they analyze data received from computer controlled astronomical observations. They work in teams and laboratories, observatories, using optical and radio telescopes and computers, and perform complex mathematical calculations. The team members usually specialize in one aspect of astronomy-for example, observation, interpretation, or data analysis. Many astronomers work late at night since this is an essential feature of observational astronomy.

The opportunities for travel are good since there are major telescopes in Australia, Europe, South Africa, South America, and the US.

Training involved:

The very first stage of training to become an astronomer is to obtain a degree. Some astronomers first take a bachelor's degree in math or physics and follow this with a Masters doctorate in astronomy.

Some also take a first degree program in subjects such as astronomy, astronautics, and astrophysics. Astronomers first study the fundamentals of physics which include mechanics-dynamics, wait and quantum mechanics before beginning specialized study. Astronomy includes the study of the solar system, galactic structure, cosmology, inter stellar structure, and space physics.

Future prospects:

Astronomy is an extremely small profession and entry into this field is highly competitive. The number of job vacancies normally arises only due to the resignations and normal wastage of employees. Competition for these positions are incredibly intense. Astronomers who work in observatories are normally government employees. A much larger number of astronomers teach in universities and colleges. Most combine teaching with the research. Instructors may be expected to teach math and physics in addition to astronomy.

There is a very small number of positions in private industry and science museums available. Any growth in employment is expected to come from aerospace companies who will employ research astronomers.

For further information, contact a relevant professional body such as an astronomical Association or astronomical Society.