Do you like stargazing? Are you interested in the study of the moon, stars, planets and comets? Do you dream about making the next huge discovery some far away from the celestial bodies? If the answers to all these questions are yes, then a career as an astrophysicist is an interesting as well as challenging career option.
An astrophysicist is an astronomer who studies about physical components of celestial objects like stars, planets and other objects beyond the earth and the solar system and their interactions with various objects of outer space.
Who is an Astrophysicist?
They study the physics of the universe. They are the researchers who evaluate and analyze the physics of astronomy. Using their in-depth knowledge of physics, they research the planets, stars, galaxies and other objects that are present in the universe and apply it to various astrological theories.
To become an astrophysicist requires training and skill that should be in combination with astronomy and physics. Courses like electromagnetism, statistical mechanics, molecular physics and quantum mechanics are listed under the spectrum of modern astrophysics.
What does Astrophysicist do?
Research and development is the main focus of the area of an astrophysicist. Primary research is required for gathering scientific knowledge and advanced research is needed for the development of scientific devices and research equipment.
- Development of astrological theories and testing them by the implementation of research theories.
- Be on a par with the latest trend and research in the astronomy industry along with your contribution of data and research to the
field. - Assisting the astrological research by analyzing and developing programs and tools required.
- Frequent communication with fellow researchers and discussion of research work.
- Facilitation of scientific experiments to learn much more about the universe.
- Analysis of data and its statistics along with archiving, plotting, evaluation and reporting of the research results.
- Coordination of data received from different satellites and telescopes and usage of theoretical models for comparison of received data with the alignment of images.
- Observational Astrophysicist’s task is to maximize the time needed for viewing the stellar events. They are also responsible for the comparison of results of complex mathematics and computer simulations with raw data for testing astrological theories. Then figure out the possible explanations for the occurrence of different cosmological phenomena.
- Theoretical Astrophysicists study the physical processes in the universe. They try to solve the questions like the existence of the black holes in the universe and the behaviour of the light in the environment of various celestial superstructures.
- Often required to teach astrophysics to students, designing and delivering varied courses and introduction of students to research.
- Reading and writing research papers along with attending conferences and events.
Educational Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree with majors in astrophysics or related field for employment as research assistants or technicians.
- Master’s degree in astronomy or astrophysics for a career in the field of applied research and development.
- PhD or doctorate in astronomy, physics or a related field is required for jobs in research or academic fields or for obtaining independent research positions in the industry.
Different Industries where astrophysicists work
The following are some of the industries where astrophysicists can be employed in:
- Academia and in higher research.
- Space research and travel organizations.
- Science Centers.
- Planetariums.
- Government agencies and organizations.
- Aerospace industries.
Required skills for an astrophysicist
The following are some of the hard and soft skills these professionals need:
- Analytical Skills
- Reporting Skills
- Mathematical Skills
- Problem-solving Skills
Astrophysicist’s average salary
The average salary of an astrophysicist depends on the organizations the astrophysicist works, geographic setting, and experience and on the tasks assigned. An entry-level astrophysicist has a less salary when compared to an experienced astrophysicist who leads a research project. Some may choose to work in the field while others may work in academic settings teaching astrophysics to students and researching.
The average salary of an astrophysicist is $79,046 per year in the United States. The annual salaries can range from $14,000 to $198,000.
Job Outlook and Career advancement
The growth of astrophysicist’s employment from 2016-2026 is expected to increase at a rate of 14% that is faster than the average growth rate for other occupations that is 7%.
Astrophysicists with a post-doctoral degree and relevant work experience can apply for permanent positions in government labs. Career advancement in this field is linked with greater independence levels in research. Private firms and organizations are expected to recruit a good number of astrophysicists.
One can move into managerial positions and over the years can be promoted to the position of natural science managers by spending most of their time preparing budgets and schedules.
– Samiya Firdous
