Keyword

Astronomer

Astrophysicist

Minimum Masters in Astronomy

Not required

The tasks an Astronomer is expected to perform include:

Studying sizes, shapes, position, masses, movement and other characteristics of heavenly bodies such as moon, planets and stars

Interpreting solar and stellar prominences and other celestial phenomena

Observing celestial bodies with telescopes fitted with complex devices such as spectroscopes, photometers, bolometers and other photography and radiation-recording instruments

Recording observations

Computing position and orbits of stars, planets, comets and asteroids

Taking photographs of sun in calcium and hydrogen lights to locate sun spots and eruption

Interpreting data regarding size, composition, position, temperature, etc. of planet and other heavenly bodies at given times for use by air and sea navigators

Publishing results of observations and solar prominences, dark marking and other phenomena

Sending periodical messages to research centres regarding solar and geomagnetic observations, behaviour and other phenomena of sun and moon

Undertaking research in special fields

Ability to solve complex problems, conduct research and accurately analyse data

Knowledge of specific science-related software programs

Proficient in maths and science

Skilled in observing celestial bodies with telescopes

Skilled in using all the photography devices such as spectroscopes, photometers and bolometers

Knowledge of characteristics of different celestial bodies

Ability to observe and make new discoveries

Not applicable

Hardworking

Observant

Self-disciplined

Adaptable

Enthusiastic

Focused

Patient

It is not a desk job

Need not handle a team

Local travelling is not a part of this job role

Part-time work and contractual jobs maybe available

Work from home option is not available

Working hours

Companies usually work for 5/6 days a week and 9/10 hours everyday. This may vary from company to company

Shift system maybe available

Is the job suitable for a candidate with special needs
No

This job is not considered hazardous or dangerous

One may develop occupational hazards such as stiff back, joint pain and weak eyesight, if not taken care of

For freshers - INR 45,000 to INR 50,000 per month

For candidates with experience - INR 65,000 to INR 80,000 per month

(These figures are indicative and subject to change)

Education, Training & Research Sector in India

According to IBEF, India is an important educational centre in the global education industry. India has more than 1.4 million schools and more than 35,000 higher education institutes. India has one of the largest higher education systems in the world and there is still a lot of potential for further development in the education system. India's online education market size is expected to touch US $ 40 billion by 2017. The RNCOS report titled, Booming Distance Education Market Outlook 2018 expects the distance education market in India to grow at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of around 34 per cent during 2013-14 to 2017-18.

Astronomy is divided into several branches such as Astrophysics, Astrometeorology, Astrophysics, Astrobiology, Astrogeology and Astrometry. These branches together help in the holistic study of the discipline and unravel the mysteries of the universe. This career is likely to grow in future as technology is enhancing and the curiosity and need for exploring the universe is also growing. Therefore, Astronomers are likely to have great career opportunities in India as well as abroad.

Public and private research and observation centres

Cities and towns across India