Astronomers
Also called: Professor, Astronomer, Astronomy Professor, Research Scientist
What they do:
Observe, research, and interpret astronomical phenomena to increase basic knowledge or apply such information to practical problems.
On the job, you would:
- Develop theories based on personal observations or on observations and theories of other astronomers.
- Develop and modify astronomy-related programs for public presentation.
- Direct the operations of a planetarium.
Knowledge
Math and Science
- physics
- arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, or statistics
Engineering and Technology
- computers and electronics
- product and service development
Arts and Humanities
- English language
Education and Training
- teaching and course design
Skills
Basic Skills
- using scientific rules and strategies to solve problems
- figuring out how to use new ideas or things
Problem Solving
- noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it
People and Technology Systems
- thinking about the pros and cons of different options and picking the best one
- figuring out how a system should work and how changes in the future will affect it
Abilities
Math
- choose the right type of math to solve a problem
- add, subtract, multiply, or divide
Verbal
- communicate by speaking
- communicate by writing
Ideas and Logic
- make general rules or come up with answers from lots of detailed information
- use rules to solve problems
Attention
- pay attention to something without being distracted
Personality
People interested in this work like activities that include
ideas, thinking, and figuring things out.
ideas, thinking, and figuring things out.
They do well at jobs that need:
- Analytical Thinking
- Initiative
- Persistence
- Achievement/Effort
- Innovation
- Independence
Technology
You might use software like this on the job:
Analytical or scientific software
- Adaptive optics AO simulation software
- Software Bisque CCDSoft
Development environment software
- Abstraction plus reference plus synthesis A++
- Formula translation/translator FORTRAN
Graphics or photo imaging software
- Avis Fits Viewer
- IRIS
Education
doctoral/professional degree
usually needed
usually needed
Job Outlook
New job opportunities are likely in the future.
$95,500
per year, on average
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