Astronomy
By: Nathan Vincent, 4th hour
Get ready to learn about the stars and beyond!
Information about Astronomy
- Study outerspace
- Answer questions about the universe
- Look for new planets
- Study planets, stars, comets, etc.
- Gather data of planets, moons, stars
- Developing and testing scientific theories
- Work within a team of scientists
- Research may be done at night when some objects are more visible
- Work full time
- Might be required to work in observatories with specialized equipment
Pros and cons
- Study space and all it has to offer - This is good because if you have an interest in space, you are able to learn and know more about it.
- Go to observatories to get a better look at moons, stars, planets, etc. - This is good because you are able to travel to new places and it also helps you get a better look at what you are studying.
- Work in a group with other scientists to get work done - This is good because if you are a social person (like me) you are able to communicate and work with other people to accomplish a goal.
Cons
- Long hours along with working at night to view planets, stars, etc. - This is bad because you can get tired with the long hours and with it being night, you can get sleepy.
- Have to have strong math and science skills - This is bad because me personally, am not a huge fan of math. This may hinder my ability to work properly.
- Have to solve complex problems and analyze data - This is bad because you have to be really smart and know how to solve and analyze things, this may be overwhelming at first.
What you need to succeed
- Astronomy
- Physical science
- Biology
- Geology
What you need to do in college
Most astronomy positions require a Ph.D. in the field of astronomy, which usually takes 5-7 years to complete. These programs are likely to contain courses in astrophysics, stellar and planetary physics, galaxies, cosmology, interstellar medium and optics. Mathematics and computer science are also emphasized. After completing a Ph.D. program, astronomers often enter one or more postdoctoral research positions, which can take roughly 2-3 years to complete. They typically work under senior astronomers before taking on more complex projects. Astronomers who are employed by the federal government may need to obtain proper security clearance.
Beloit College: Beloit, WI
Central Michigan University: Mount Pleasant, MI
Minnesota State University Moorhead: South Moorhead
Colleges pros and cons
Pros
- Only 7,470 a year
- ACT score doesn't need to be high
- Computers on campus for student use
Cons
- High SAT score
- Not a lot of people complete their bachelors
- 280 dollars of fees
Central Michigan:
Pros
- Computers on campus
- Has a wide variety of sports to do
- A lot of applicants are accepted
Cons
- Very expensive
- Little to none out of state students
- High SAT scores
Minnesota State:
Pros
- Has good security
- In state and out of state price doesn't change
- Lots of people who apply get in
Cons
- Not a lot of sports
- Library doesn't have a lot of books
- Not culturally diverse
Associations/Professional Organizations
American Astronomical Society
http://stats.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/physicists-and-astronomers.htm
Bureau of Labor Statistics