Occupation: Astronomers
Astronomers
Observe, research, and interpret astronomical phenomena to increase basic knowledge or apply such information to practical problems.
Reported Job Titles (4)
- Astronomer
- Astronomy Outreach Coordinator
- Astrophysicist
- Research Astrophysicist
Core Tasks (16)
- Analyze research data to determine its significance, using computers.
- Present research findings at scientific conferences and in papers written for scientific journals.
- Study celestial phenomena, using a variety of ground-based and space-borne telescopes and scientific instruments.
- Collaborate with other astronomers to carry out research projects.
- Mentor graduate students and junior colleagues.
- Supervise students' research on celestial and astronomical phenomena.
- Teach astronomy or astrophysics.
- Develop theories based on personal observations or on observations and theories of other astronomers.
- Measure radio, infrared, gamma, and x-ray emissions from extraterrestrial sources.
- Develop instrumentation and software for astronomical observation and analysis.
- Review scientific proposals and research papers.
- Raise funds for scientific research.
- Develop and modify astronomy-related programs for public presentation.
- Serve on professional panels and committees.
- Calculate orbits and determine sizes, shapes, brightness, and motions of different celestial bodies.
- Conduct question-and-answer presentations on astronomy topics with public audiences.
Supplemental Tasks (1)
- Direct the operations of a planetarium.