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Occupation information - In brief...



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Central Applications Office 69 courses found.
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In Brief... Astronomer

 Brief Description:

Astronomers research stars, planets and the universe. They study and analyse maps space and the universe at large using information from telescopes and satellites.

Long before man walked on the moon, man has been staring at the stars, attempting to find out what is out there. Astronomers have been around for centuries, exploring and explaining what they see as best they can. Nowadays Astronomers need a degree in physics or equivalent to make sense of the vast data that is obtained daily from observatories and other sources around the world. Theories change regularly as new discoveries are made.

Astronomy is an exact science, entailing the constant research and recording of where everything is in the universe. The Astronomer also analyses each and every heavenly body and event that he/she comes across and records their structure and movement using sophisticated scientific equipment and computers.


Personal Attributes: able to handle complex information, numerical ability, patient, accurate.

Typical tasks undertaken in this profession: 12

»  

Study celestial phenomena, using a variety of ground-based and space-borne telescopes and scientific instruments. 

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Analyze research data to determine its significance, using computers. 

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Present research findings at scientific conferences and in papers written for scientific journals. 

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Measure radio, infrared, gamma, and x-ray emissions from extraterrestrial sources. 

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Develop theories based on personal observations or on observations and theories of other astronomers. 

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Raise funds for scientific research. 

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Collaborate with other astronomers to carry out research projects. 

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Develop instrumentation and software for astronomical observation and analysis. 

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Teach astronomy or astrophysics. 

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Develop and modify astronomy-related programs for public presentation. 

2 In Detail...
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Go.. Astronomer - from:  Career Directions
Go.. Astronomer - from:  N.C.S. [UK]

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Education
Most of these occupations require post-graduate qualifications. For example, they may require a masters degree, and some require a Ph.D., or M.D.

Related Experience
Extensive skill, knowledge, and experience are needed for these occupations. Many require more than five years of experience. For example, surgeons must complete four years of college and an additional five to seven years of specialised medical training to be able to do their job.

Job Training
Employees may need some on-the-job training, but most of these occupations assume that the person will already have the required skills, knowledge, work-related experience, and/or training.

Job Zone Examples
These occupations often involve coordinating, training, supervising, or managing the activities of others to accomplish goals. Very advanced communication and organisational skills are required. Examples include librarians, lawyers, aerospace engineers, wildlife biologists, school psychologists, surgeons, treasurers, and most scientists.


Qualifications required?

Level 9 Award in related subject area: MSc postgraduate courses in astronomy or physics would normal

Typical entry routes:

Degree can be in a related discipline such as Mathematics, Physics, Astronomy or Astrophysics.

Related courses

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Sectors related to this occupation:

This occupation is typically found in the sectors below. You can explore information relating to sectors by clicking on the titles below.

Physical & Mathematical Sciences
Space Science and Technology

Future Skills Requirements & Concerns

Current Labour Market Research highlights concerns in some occupations. These comments are presented here where available: [source: Forfas]


 
This occupation has been viewed 87104 times
 
1 Salary Information
Note: All salaries are in thousands of euros and refer to annual salaries.

Job Title
Astronomer
Salary Range*
30 - 65
Related Information:
Data Source(s):
FAS

Last Updated: February, 2011
* The lower figures typically reflect starting salaries. Higher salaries are awarded to those with greater experience and responsibility. Positions in Dublin sometimes command higher salaries.

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0 LABOUR MARKET INFORMATION

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