Astronomer

What you'll do

Study planets, stars, galaxies and phenomena such as black holes using telescopes and cameras on the ground and in space. Remember the Leonardo di Caprio and Jennifer Lawrence characters on Don’t Look Up? Yup, both astronomers!

Where you'll work

National observatories and laboratories such as Jodrell Bank, government departments, national or international space agencies such as NASA, commercial space companies such as SpaceX or Virgin Galactic, astronomy departments at universities. Sometimes in space!

Salary range

£15,000 – £75,000

Skills you'll need

Extensive maths and physics knowledge
Analytical and critical-thinking skills
Strong research skills
Good attention to detail
Able to gather, interpret and report data
Must love space
Foreign languages can be useful – especially Russian! – as this is a very international industry

Check these out...

Amazing physics - Learn more about becoming a Design Engineer and where it could take your career.

Amazing physics - Learn more about becoming a Scuba Diver and where it could take your career.

Amazing physics - Learn more about becoming an Astronaut and where it could take your career.

View Cards

Additional Resources - Planet Possibility

Future First Infinity is part of the world of Planet Possibility.

Explore your career options. Start planning your next step. Kick-start your career in physics!

Planet Possibility