What Astronomers DoObserve, research, and interpret astronomical phenomena to increase basic knowledge or apply such information to practical problems.
- Mentor graduate students and junior colleagues.
- Present research findings at scientific conferences and in papers written for scientific journals.
- Collaborate with other astronomers to carry out research projects.
- Analyze research data to determine its significance, using computers.
- Study celestial phenomena, using a variety of ground-based and space-borne telescopes and scientific instruments.
Astronomers Education, Salary, and GrowthOnly you can decide how much you need to earn — but knowing what it actually costs to live in your area can help. The Family Budget Calculator can guide you.
Minimum EducationDoctoral or Professional Degree
Career ProspectsExcellent (Increasing by 5% or more)
Training TimeOver 4 years
Job Openings100 Annually
Median Earnings
$142,060 in California
$132,170 Nationally
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Is This Career Right For You?
YOU Like
- Being creative or artistic
- Thinking and problem solving
- Working with my hands
you value
- Accomplishing things
- Having freedom
- Receiving recognition
you are skilled in
- Active Listening
- Complex Problem Solving
- Critical Thinking
- Speaking
- Writing
- Reading Comprehension
Go Deeper: Astronomers Explained
AstronomerExplore career pathways, key skills, and what each role has to offer.
How Do You Train for This Career?
Learn about the education and training paths that can lead to this career — and what to expect from each one.
Bachelor's DegreeA bachelor's degree typically results in increased knowledge about a variety of academic subjects, specialized knowledge in a focused field of study, and is considered the foundational qualification for many careers.
🎓 College
⏱️ Finish in 4-5+ years
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