Astronomer Responsibilities
Astronomers work with teams of scientists and engineers to design new observational equipment, conduct research and develop theories. They also must be able to justify and secure grant funding, write articles for publication in scholarly journals and present their findings at conferences.
Some astronomers focus on observing planets, stars, galaxies and black holes while others develop models and computer simulations to understand complex astrophysical phenomena.
Observation
Astronomers spend a significant amount of time using telescopes and other observational tools to gather data on celestial objects. The specifics of this work vary depending on the astronomer’s specialty. For example, planetary astronomers may study the rotation and life cycles of planets in our solar system while stellar astronomers focus on the creation of stars and stellar phenomena such as black holes, nebulae and pulsars.
Theoretical astronomers, on the other hand, use mathematical models and computer simulations to explain observations and predict the behavior of astronomical objects and systems. They may also write research proposals and apply for grant funding, contribute to scientific journals and present at conferences. This career path is competitive and requires a substantial commitment of time, including working at night and enduring irregular sleep schedules. Astronomers may also collaborate with other scientists to develop new observational equipment and techniques. The work is often performed in observatories or research laboratories located at universities and other institutions.
Research
Researching and developing new theories, mathematical models and software technologies to learn more about the universe and celestial objects. This includes testing existing astronomical data and information, writing scholarly articles and proposing for funding to fund future research.
Astronomers often collaborate with other scientists, researchers and engineers to work on projects that require a range of different skillsets. This can include working on satellites, developing advanced telescopes or developing computer simulations to model complex astrophysical phenomena.
Astronomers also teach astronomy courses at colleges and universities and conduct outreach to promote science education. This involves giving public lectures, participating in science festivals and promoting scientific literacy. This requires strong verbal and written communication and interpersonal skills as well as the ability to communicate with different audiences. Astronomers also need excellent self-discipline and organisation to manage long-term projects and work at night during observational periods. They may also travel to observatories in remote locations and must be able to handle changing work conditions.
Teaching
Astronomers often teach or mentor students, helping them conduct research and develop their own theories. They also give lectures and guest appearances to educate the public about astronomy.
Astronomy is a field that offers a unique sense of wonder and awe. Observing celestial objects and studying their origin and evolution can inspire a lifelong passion for science.
Many astronomers work in colleges and universities, where they teach astronomy courses and mentor undergraduate and graduate students. They may also work in national observatories or government-funded labs that support federal astronomical research.
In a study of teacher-astronomer partnerships, teachers reported that effective astronomers were prompt, able to relate to kids, exited about their work, knowledgeable and tolerant of children’s questions. They were also responsible for establishing and maintaining communication, managing classroom behavior, planning, preparing and facilitating lessons collaboratively and administering pre- and post-astronomy assessments. They also exhibited an ability to communicate complex ideas in an understandable manner.
Administration
Astronomers work in a variety of environments, from universities to research institutions and observatories. They also collaborate with other scientists in national and international projects, participating in a wide range of observational and data analysis activities.
In addition to research, astronomers often participate in public outreach and communication. They give lectures, attend science festivals and write articles to promote scientific literacy. Some even direct the operations of planetariums, which provide opportunities for members of the general public to observe celestial objects with professional-grade telescopes.
Astronomers study the Universe beyond Earth, and the Universe within our Solar System, using a combination of observations and theory. Observational astronomers might search for new planets, stars and galaxies; while theoretical astronomers might investigate the behaviour of matter under conditions that cannot be replicated on Earth, such as extreme temperatures and exotic particles. Their discoveries and theories have led to important advancements in navigation, space flight and atomic theory.