* * * This is NOT a job offer * * * The purpose of this occupational guide is to provide you with useful information to help you make career decisions. If you are searching for a job, please go to CalJobs (for jobs in California)     OR      JOBcentral (for jobs nationwide)

More Occupational Guides

Astronomers

THE JOB

ASTRONOMERS study objects and phenomena which exist or have their origin in
outer space.  It is a popular misconception that Astronomers devote their
professional lives working late at night, peering intently through
telescopes in lonely, cold observatories.   In reality, Astronomers
generally spend no more than several weeks a year at an observatory or
satellite control station.  They are more likely at work in comfortable
offices, laboratories, or Research facilities.  The modern Astronomer uses
Research data to  calculate the composition of galaxies, quasars, stars, and
planets and to measure radio, infrared, gamma, and X-ray emissions from
extraterrestrial sources.  Because so much of an Astronomer's activities
involve an examination and analysis of physical phenomenon, some modern
astronomy is sometimes referred to as Astrophysics.

Unlike most other scientists, Astronomers usually cannot experiment with,
physically handle, or make changes to the things they study.  They gather
information through observations.  They look for consistent patterns in the
information they gather and develop and test theories using mathematical
applications.  Information obtained from other scientists and observers is
often necessary to compliment their own Research.  They report their
findings to the scientific community through professional journals.

Astronomers fall into two general categories: Theorists and Observers.
Together, the findings of both groups bring about advances in this field.
Observational Astronomers study the stars and galaxies using equipment such
as radio, optical, and X-ray telescopes, spectrographs, and satellite-mounted
television cameras with computer-controlled image intensifiers.  Although
Astronomers may use all of these tools, most specialize in one aspect of
study using one set of instruments.  

Theoretical Astronomers work on developing theories from observations they
make themselves or from those made by other Astronomers.  They develop
mathematical equations derived from the laws of physics, and apply these
equations to observations.  They may calculate the composition of stars,
galaxies, planets and formulate ideas on how they developed and how they
will die.  Theoretical Astronomers rely heavily on computers to solve
intricate equations.

In addition to these basic activities, Astronomers perform a wide  range of
other duties.  They may teach, program computers, build scientific
instruments, and develop and write scientific reports to make their work
available for use by other scientists.


WORKING CONDITIONS

According to the American Astronomical Society, approximately 55% of the
professional Astronomers work in colleges, universities, or in observatories
affiliated with them.  About one third work in federally-funded programs
such as the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, the Smithsonian
Astrophysical Observatory, the U. S. Naval Observatory, and the U.S. Naval
Research Laboratory.  About ten percent work in the private sector, in such
industries as aerospace and consulting.  The remainder work in such places
as planetariums and scientific museums .  

Astronomers spend most of their time in well-equipped offices, analyzing the
results of their observations.  They occasionally travel to remote
observational sites.  They may work long hours obtaining and analyzing their
data.  Some aspects of their work can take months or even years to complete.
They are increasingly getting involved in administrative tasks, such as
writing grant proposals, as competition intensifies.

There are several important observation stations in California, including Mt.
Hamilton, Palomar Mountain, Mt. Wilson, and the Owens Valley and Hat Creek
radio facilities.  NASA has two important facilities in California: the Jet
Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena and the Ames Research Center at Moffett
Field.  However, since astronomy is a relatively small occupation in
California, new Astronomers must seriously consider the possibility of
relocating.


EMPLOYMENT OUTLOOK

The following information is from the California Projections of Employment
published by the Labor Market Information Division.  These figures represent
the broad occupational group of Physicists and Astronomers.

Estimated number of workers in 1993             1,110
Estimated number of workers by 2005               970
Projected Growth 1993-2005                       -13%
Estimated openings due to separations by 2005     360

(These figures do not include self-employment or openings due to turnover.)

Astronomers are members of a small occupational fraternity; there are only
about 6,000 astronomers in the United States.  About 150 job opportunities
arise each year, and the number of Ph.D's awarded closely match that number.
This means that the job market is very competitive.

Prospects are best for students who graduate with a doctorate.  Some
Astronomers work for private industry in the defense sector.  Some teach in
elementary, middle or high schools.


WAGES, HOURS, AND FRINGE BENEFITS

Astronomers do not have a standard workweek or workday.  Their hours vary
with their teaching load, Research projects, consulting commitments, and
public speaking assignments.  University Professors must plan and conduct
classes and still carry out their Research.  They may put in many hours on
Research, yet also find the time to write their conclusions or theories for
publication.  

Earnings for Astronomers vary according to their employer, education, and
experience.  Astronomers who have a Ph.D. and are federally employed start
at the GS-11 level, $34,981 to $45,475 and advance to GS-15 level, $69,300
to $90,090 per year.  The salary for a Professor of Astronomy at a four year
college or university ranges from $30,000 to over $100,000 per year.
Professors often supplement their incomes by writing, consulting, or doing
Research projects.

Fringe benefits usually include paid holidays, vacations, health and dental
insurance, and a retirement plan.


ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS AND TRAINING

Most astronomy positions require a Ph.D.  Prospects for Astronomers without
an advanced degree are poor;  opportunities are generally limited to
community college or high school teaching positions, or technician jobs.
An individual with an M.S. in astronomy may find a teaching position in a
planetarium or in a community college teaching astronomy and other physical
sciences.  Most teaching and Research positions in government, universities,
and industries require a Ph.D. in astronomy.  The American Astronomical
Association reports that only candidates with a degree from a quality
university program, a passion for astronomy, and a high level of ability are
likely to find a permanent position. In addition to the educational
background, universities and government agencies look for creative Research
projects undertaken by applicants, an ability to write and speak English,
and a curiosity about natural phenomena.  A working knowledge of one or more
foreign languages, especially German, Russian, Chinese, or French, is also
helpful.


ADVANCEMENT

Astronomers with a Ph.D. can promote by moving into upper level positions in
Research and teaching.  Many Astronomers consider being recognized as an
expert in the field the ultimate form of advancement.  This recognition is
usually obtained after investing many  years on Research projects and having
the results  published in scientific journals.

Graduates who possess only a bachelor's or master's degree will have few
opportunities for advancement in this occupation.  They can, however, move
into related fields, such as engineering or secondary school teaching, which
will tend to offer them better chances to advance.


FINDING THE JOB

The American Astronomical Society accepts advertisements from employers
looking for Astronomers and maintains a register of members seeking
positions.  Meetings of the American Astronomical Society and the
Astronomical Society of the Pacific are excellent places to make job
contacts.  Professors and Researchers also frequently know of job  openings.
These personal contacts are often the best sources of leads. 

ADDITIONAL SOURCES OF INFORMATION

American Astronomical Society
2000 Florida Ave NW Suite 400
Washington D.C. 20009
(202) 328-2010
http://www.aas.org

Astronomical Society of the Pacific 
390 Ashton Avenue
San Francisco, CA 94112
(415) 337-1100
http://www.aspsky.org

RELATED OCCUPATIONAL GUIDES

Physicists       No.    62
Mathematicians   No.    66
Meteorologists   No.   200

OCCUPATIONAL CODE REFERENCES

DOT (Dictionary of Occupational Titles, 4th Ed., 1991)
Astronomer (profess. & kin.)    021.067-010

OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) System
Physicists and Astronomers           241020

Source: State of California, Employment Development Department,
        Labor Market Information Division, Information Services Group,
        (916) 262-2162.