Astronomy Career Course Details
In India Astronomy courses are one of the oldest
branches of science that human beings are acquainted with. This branch focuses on
the study of the behaviour of the celestial bodies such as the sun, planets, stars,
comets, meteors, galaxies, satellites, etc.
Astronomy, not being confined to a single domain, is further divided into diverse
fields such as Astrophysics, Astrometeorology, Astrobiology, Astrogeology, Astrometry
and Cosmology and so on. This branch of space science unveils and seeks answers
to some very vital questions such as how human race came into existence, what factors
led to the creation of atmosphere, what causes earth to support life and last but
not the least, the most burning question of all – Does any other planet support
life other than the Earth?
Eligibility for Astronomy Courses:
Eligibility for Theoretical Astronomy/ Observations is B.Sc. in Physics and/or
Mathematics. Post graduation degree with specialization in Theoretical Astronomy
is offered by various institutes and Universities. To pursue a career in Instrumentation/Experimental
Astronomy, one must have B.E in Electrical/ Electronics/ Electrical Communications.
Skill Required: If anyone
chooses astronomy as a
career, then he/she should have keen interest in Physics and Mathematics.
Self-direction, patience and ability to handle disappointing situations are some
of the vital qualities that an aspirant must possess in this field. Apart from these,
ability to work in teams, good interpersonal relations and adaptability are the
other characteristic traits which an astronomer must have since they are sometimes
required to work in teams on a specific project.
Job Prospects and Career Options:
After completing B.Tech or M.Sc in astronomy course,
one can become professor or technician or research assistant, though their scope
is limited. PhD degree holders have the most challenging career in the field of
astronomy. An astronomer is generally employed by government sector and defence
and space research organizations. An astronomer should have zest for travelling
since he has to often travel to different parts of the world for research projects,
seminars, etc. A professional astronomer can also go for courses on Microelectronics
& Instrumentation.
Remuneration: While doing
research work, a monthly stipend of Rs. 8,000 is generally paid to a Junior Researcher
while a Senior Researcher is expected to get Rs. 9,000 per month. As a beginner,
one gets around Rs. 10,000 per month from the government sector but with gradual
experience and expertise, the salary becomes much higher.
After completing the research work, employment opportunities with different institutions
increase. Various government bodies and institutions employ astronomers in various
grades of scientists where they are offered high salaries along with other perks
and allowances.
Institutes/ Universities for Astronomy
courses in India:
- Physical Research Laboratory, Ahmadabad.
- Tata institute of Fundamental research, Mumbai.
- Raman Research Institute, Bangalore.
- Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore.
- Indian Institute of Astrophysics, Bangalore.
- Radio Astronomy Centre, Tamilnadu.
- Inter University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics, Pune.
Related Exam: To complete
Ph.D in astronomy course one has to appear for Joint Entrance Screening Test (JEST).
