Astronomer

Your day to day duties will depend on your area of expertise.

In observational astronomy, you could:

• collect and analyse data from satellites and spacecraft
• explore space using radio and optical telescopes
• design new instruments and maintain existing equipment
• develop software to interpret images and data captured by satellites

In theoretical astronomy, you could:

• create computer models to test theories about space activities
• analyse the results of past observations to make new predictions
• make observations and develop theories
• analyse data to help build our understanding of events in the universe

• maths knowledge
• knowledge of physics
• analytical thinking skills
• science skills
• excellent verbal communication skills
• the ability to use your initiative
• the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
• concentration skills
• to have a thorough understanding of computer systems and applications

You can get into this job through a university course.

You'll usually start as a post-doctoral researcher before moving on to permanent posts that can lead to becoming a professor.

You can transfer your science skills across lots of careers and sectors, for example:

• aerospace research and development
• satellite research and development
• systems analysis
• software engineering
• teaching and lecturing
• science communication
• finance