Astronomers
Observe, research, and interpret astronomical phenomena to increase basic knowledge or apply such information to practical problems.
What it pays
Astronomers earn a median of $61.94/hr — about $129,000 a year. The lowest-paid 10% earn $37.50/hr; the top 10% earn $93.84/hr. (Annual figures are approximate: hourly × 2,080.)
Astronomers earn a median of $61.94/hr — about $129,000 a year. The lowest-paid 10% earn $37.50/hr; the top 10% earn $93.84/hr. (Annual figures are approximate: hourly × 2,080.)
What you'd actually do
- 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.
How you get there
Typical entry-level education: Doctoral degree. Overall preparation: extensive preparation (Job Zone 5 of 5).
The feel of the work
Much of the day is spent working solo; it rewards working independently. (Compared against the other 818 careers in the guide.)
Working for yourself
About 5.4% of astronomers are self-employed.
Who it tends to fit
This work tends to fit people who are analytical, hands-on and organized and detail-focused.
Work a simulated shift in this job — freeMake the real decisions this job involves, then see what your choices say about you.Related careers
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Quick questions
- How much does a astronomer make?
- The median pay is $61.94 per hour — roughly $129,000 a year, with the real range running from about $37.50/hr (10th percentile) to $93.84/hr (90th percentile). Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
- Do you need a degree to be a astronomer?
- The typical entry-level education is: Doctoral degree. Overall preparation level: extensive preparation (Job Zone 5 of 5).
- What does a astronomer actually do all day?
- 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.
Wages: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS. Tasks & interests: O*NET. Career pathways shown in the app are draft archetypes — verify before relying on them. Trailhead is a free career guide for students — honest numbers, no hype.
Trailhead is operated by FLEXVermont LLC. It is intended for high-school students age 13 and older, and the educators and families who support them, and is not directed to children under 13. Trailhead is provided for general informational and educational purposes only. It does not offer professional, financial, or career advice, and its wage figures and pathways are estimates that may not fit your situation — they should not be relied on as the sole basis for any decision.
Trailhead is operated by FLEXVermont LLC. It is intended for high-school students age 13 and older, and the educators and families who support them, and is not directed to children under 13. Trailhead is provided for general informational and educational purposes only. It does not offer professional, financial, or career advice, and its wage figures and pathways are estimates that may not fit your situation — they should not be relied on as the sole basis for any decision.