How to Become an Astronomer

Have planets, black holes, and meteors always piqued your interest? Does the mysterious working of the incredible space fascinate you? If so, you ought to look into the possibilities of a career in Astronomy. Learn all about Astronomy including the Astronomy definition, major branches, how to become an Astronomer in India, courses, career opportunities, and the future of the discipline in this blog.

What is Astronomy?

Astronomy is the branch of science concerned with space, the physical world, and celestial objects. Astronomy is one of the oldest sciences that has evolved over years and has become one of the most researched disciplines in the field of science. Astronomy means study of extraterrestrial objects and various astronomical phenomena. It encompasses everything in the universe; from the celestial bodies like stars, comets, and nebulas to the phenomenal events like arrival of comets, death of stars, formation of planets, and other spectacular events.

Who is an Astronomer?

Have you ever wondered what an Astronomer does? Or how Astronomy meaning evolved over years, or who was the first Astronomer who helped us to learn more about the ways of the universe? Find answers to these questions and more by reading on. Thousands of years ago, there were a lot of things unknown to us about this vast universe. The earliest civilizations used to believe that the universe was divided into six levels and there were three heavens. Eventually, Babylonians began to develop an exact science to analyse and understand the mysterious workings of the universe and wrote the first line in the book of Astronomy. Astronomers are highly skilled scientists who observe and study these celestial objects like galaxies, black holes, stars, planets, and other phenomena to get a deeper understanding of the universe and the relationship of humankind with outer space. What an Astronomer does is combine the understanding of different fields of Science, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, and Meteorology to paint a picture about the events that happen in the universe.

Different Types of Astronomy:

Astronomy as a discipline is broadly split into two branches. Explore the different fields of Astronomy for beginners to find out what they are and the difference between two in the table below:

Both branches are equally important and work hand in hand to explain why things happen and the preference toward either branch is a matter of personal choice.

How to Become an Astronomer In India:

Read the step-by-step guide below to get an idea about how to become an Astronomer in India.

Step 1:

Get a very good understanding of Physics, Math and Chemistry at a higher secondary level. Also challenge yourself to take advanced courses. A candidate needs to complete the 10+2/ 2nd PUC level in Science stream with Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics as core subjects from a recognized board and also secure a minimum score of 50% aggregate marks.

Step 2:

Crack your entrance exams, get into college and earn a Bachelor's degree in Science specialising in Physics/ Applied Physics/ Maths/ Astrophysics.

Step 3:

Earn a Masters degree in Astronomy or Astrophysics which focuses more on research and provides a more hands on opportunity to explore the subject. 

Step 4: 

Figure out which area of Astronomy actually interests you and choose your specialization accordingly. Get a doctorate, specialising in Astronomy to get an in-depth knowledge about your area of interest. Write a dissertation, look for internships and research fellowships which will be a great way to kickstart your career. 

Personal Skills: 

Apart from educational qualifications, there are a range of skills that you must possess to become an Astronomer.

• Out of the box thinking

• Analytical & problem solving skills

• Excellent logical reasoning

• Quantitative & computational skills

• Attention to detail 

• Research skills

• Self-discipline and organisational skills
  
  

Astronomy Scope in India:

Astronomy scope in India has developed significantly over time and sets new records daily. It has contributed significantly to the biggest technological advancements and has led to numerous discoveries in fields like optics and electronics. As with the development of effective solar panels, X-ray machines, MR scanners, and many other technological advancements, Astronomy is at the vanguard of scientific discovery. We can say that Astronomy is a very beneficial career path both to the individual and society. In a wealthy and technologically advancing society like India, Astronomy has a lot of scope. There is high demand for Astronomers to gather, analyse, and manage crucial data which is relevant for extensive scientific research. Astronomers usually get paid well with other benefits, although you should be prepared for spending some extended hours in laboratories and observatories for some research.

So, if you're wondering if Astrophysics is a viable career option in India? It is without a doubt, however the trip might be a little lengthy. Public organisations such as Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) and Antrix Corporation present excellent prospects. Private aerospace companies also look to recruit talented Astronomers. The journey as a successful researcher in India can be a little competitive as it requires a lot of patience and hardwork and there is a lack of funding. Infact, India has a group called the Astronomical Society Of India (ASI) that is solely focused on promotion of the field of Astronomy and related disciplines. The society offers networking opportunities through divisions covering areas of specialisation, commissions, and working groups.

Astronomy Courses In India:

Are you thinking of becoming an Astronomer in India? A candidate who is seriously interested in pursuing a career in the field of Astronomy after class 12th can take courses that are offered by different institutions. Courses are offered at Certificate, Undergraduate, Postgraduate and Doctorate levels which can be chosen according to your interest and eligibility. Different institutions have different criterias for selection. However, the basic criteria regarding the eligibility to become an Astronomer is discussed below. 

1. Certification Courses:
   

This course can range from a few hours to a year. These courses are best for Astronomy beginners, generally delivered both online & offline. These courses are offered by colleges as well as websites like Udemy, Coursera, and edX. These platforms offer courses at all levels ranging from beginners to advanced. So, one can choose the course based on their knowledge and area of interest. 

2. Bachelor’s Courses: 
   
   

Generally graduate courses are for 3-4 years. You can pursue a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc) in subjects like Physics, Astrophysics or Applied Physics. Another option would be to pursue a Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) in Space Technology, Aerospace Engineering or similar engineering fields after completing 10+2/ 2nd PUC in science stream from a recognized board and a minimum score of 50%. Admissions are merit or entrance based.

3. Master’s Courses:
   
   

Generally, postgraduate courses are taught over a span of 2 years. You can pursue a Master of Science (M.Sc) in Astronomy or Astrophysics or acquire a Master of Technology (M.Tech) in Astronomy and Space Engineering after completing a Bachelor's degree in Astronomy or equivalent with a minimum score of 50% from a recognized university.  An Astronomy degree at the master’s level will expose students to advanced Astronomy research, usage of analytical models and tools, and the application of principles of Physics, Maths and other disciplines to solve problems in Astrophysics.

Admissions are based on merit or entrance exams and the selected candidates have to go through the admission process of the respective institute to secure their seat. 

How to do a PhD in Astronomy?

In order to pursue a Doctorate in Astronomy, you should complete your post graduation in M.Sc in Astronomy/ Astrophysics or equivalent from a recognized university with a minimum score of 50%.  PhD programmes are generally 3 year programmes. You can pursue a PhD in Astronomy in India by appearing for the Joint Entrance Screening Test (JEST) or you can appear for the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE). The main objective of the PhD programmes is to develop critical skills through coursework, directed and original research, dissertation which are beneficial to launch a career in different fields of Astronomy. Also, most professional Astronomers working in top positions have doctorate degrees in Astrophysics or equivalent disciplines.

How to Become an Astronomer in ISRO & NASA:

To answer the question on ‘How to become an Astronomer for NASA & ISRO’ or in any other world class institutions for Astronomy, you must have a Bachelor's degree in a scientific field such as Physics/ Applied Physics/ Astronomy/ Astrophysics/ Mathematics/ B.Tech a Masters in a field related to Astronomy Degree, followed specialisation in relevant field of Astronomy through PhD programme or equivalent. Then try for postdoctoral fellowships programmes in these institutions or wait for an open slot , work along with recognized universities, to build a reputation. It won't be an easy journey but with your hard work, dedication, relevant education qualification combined with excellent skills and experience can help you to these prestigious positions.

Astronomy Courses in India After 12th:

Here are some Astronomy courses after 12th which have become more popular recently. There are different Astronomy courses and the duration of course may vary. Check out these degree courses in Astronomy discussed below to kickstart your career.

Bachelors of Science (B.Sc) in Astrophysics: This is an undergraduate course consisting of 6 semesters over 3 years. It is one the most popular courses amongst students. The subjects in B.Sc Astrophysics consist of Physics, Mathematics, Space Physics, Thermal Physics, Modern Physics, Observational and Theoretical Economics, Special Relativity and other related Astronomy subjects.

Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) in Space Technology: This is an undergraduate course consisting of 8 semesters over 4 years. This is a very relevant course for someone who is looking forward to starting a career in Astronomy. The subjects in B.Tech Space Technology include different papers in Engineering like Physics, Engineering Mechanics, Mathematical Physics, Introduction to Space Vehicles, and many more. 

Bachelors of Science (B.Sc) in Physics: This is an undergraduate course of 6 semesters spread out over 3 years. A degree in B.Sc Physics focuses on the working of the universe by getting a better understanding of different forces and principles involved in nature. Students learn about subjects like Programming, Chemistry, Optics, different fields of physics including Nuclear Physics, Mathematical Physics, Mechanics, and other related topics. Later you can pursue a Masters in Astronomy or Astrophysics.

Masters of Science (M.Sc) in Astronomy: This is a postgraduate course of 4 semesters spread out over 2 years. This is a very relevant course for someone who is looking forward to starting a career in Astronomy. This programme covers subjects like Space Physics, Quantum Mechanics, Fluid Mechanics and Magneto Hydro Dynamics, Basics of Astronomy & Astrophysics, Astronomical Techniques, Radio Astronomy and other relevant topics.

Masters of Science (M.Sc) in Astrophysics: This is a postgraduate course consisting of 4 semesters spread over 2 years. The M.Sc Astrophysics programme is one of the most relevant courses universally. This programme covers the core Astronomy subjects like Astronomy, Special Relativity, Practical Physics, Galaxies, Oscillation of waves, Astrophysics, Thermal Physics and other relevant topics.

Top Entrance Exams: JEST, GATE, IIAST, CSIR NET, TIFR GS

Books & Study Materials: 

Read these Astronomy books to know more about the universe, space, Astronomy and the mysterious way it works.

• A Brief History of Time by Stephen Hawking

• The Universe in a Nutshell by Stephen Hawking

• The Fabric of the Cosmos by Brian Greene

• The Human Cosmos: A Secret History of the Stars by Jo Marchant

• Cosmos by Carl Sagan
  
  

Top Astronomy Colleges In India:

Here are some of the best colleges in India which offer degrees in Astronomy.

• REVA University, Bangalore

• Christ University, Bangalore

• St. Joseph’s University, Bangalore

• Jain University, Bangalore

• Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology, Bangalore 

• M.S. Ramaiah Institute of Technology, Bangalore

• BMS College of Engineering, Bangalore

• R V College of Engineering (RVCE), Bangalore

• Institute of Astrophysics, Bangalore

• Raman Research Institute, Bangalore

• B.K Birla College Of Arts Science & Commerce, Thane

• Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR), Mumbai

BSc Astronomy Colleges In India: 

Here are some of the best colleges in India which offer a Bachelor's degree in Astronomy. 

• Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore

• Indian Institute of Astrophysics, Bangalore

• Raman Research Institute, Bangalore

• Radio Astronomy Center Indian Institute of Science, Ooty

Learn more about the salary of Astronomers in India on an average scale as a fresher, experienced or as a skilled researcher.