how do you become an astronomer?

Answer 1

To be a real astronomer, you'll need a Ph.D. in astronomy, astrophysics, or physics. Start out by majoring in physics as an undergrad, with a double major or minor in math and astronomy, if possible. You'll apply to astronomy and/or physics grad schools, and you'll need to basically complete a Ph.D. in physics with astronomy tacked on, so it's a lot of physics and math. And computer science - you'll need to be able to program and manipulate data as well.

It's a good 10 years of work - 4 undergrad and an average of 6 years in grad school. Most astronomer are researchers as well as teachers, so you can work at a university, gov't lab (like NRAO, NOAO, NSO, etc), or NASA. Don't forget to do research early and often as an undergrad to prepare you for grad school. Good luck!

Answer 2

A lot of hard work is involved in becoming an astronomer! For example, at many colleges and undergraduate degree in astronomy requires a minor in either math or physics. Often, a chemistry course or two plus a course or two in geology are required.

My guess is that there aren't many jobs for people undergraduate degrees; you will need an MA and/or PhD for real employment.

HTH

Charles

Answer 3

To the Holy Rev Soleil - oh, so observing the celebrities makes you an astronomer? i've got seen a human kidney, i think that makes me a well-being practitioner. Yesh, you're extraordinary - yet i've got self assurance that we get asked through fact, being people who're attracted to technological awareness and difficulty examining books on the situation, we would purely understand. i'm no longer an astronomer, yet i understand the solar will burn out in 5bn years, provide or take.

Answer 4

I love astronomy and i'd like to become an astronomer too but you have to go to a good college and from there they tell you where you can apply for astronomy

Answer 5

first, look up at those cold points of light in the night sky. then learn, diligently, everything you can about astronomy. of course, getting a degree from an accredited university would help...but consider, will you be able to get a job with a degree in astronomy. would be best to have a back-up plan.
you can be an astronomer by simply looking up at night. to be a professional, of course requires more.

Answer 6

It's hard to get into the profession. But get a degree in astrophysics, physics, or mathematics. Keep going until you get your Phd and then get a job researching at a university. Or you can apply to jobs after you get your Bachelorer's or Masters.

Answer 7

Take space classes when in college. Or become an astronaut. This will really take you up close and personal with the galaxy's most amazing planets and stars. I would think that it would be pretty amazing up there in space!

Answer 8

doing physics and then a university course in astrophysics would probably set you in good sted!

Answer 9

Go to radio shack.