Careers

Science leaders can influence industries, governments, and the public. Some scientists represent science and scientists worldwide. They work for professional organisations like the International Astronomical Union.  Professional organisations support the interests of their members and promote their work.

Astrophysicists apply their knowledge of maths to solve problems about the Universe. They collect information using telescopes, and use maths and statistics to interpret the information. Astrophysicists also use mathematical models and formulas to understand the physics of the Universe. We would not have been able to discover black holes or know that the Universe is expanding without maths.

Earth science is the study of what our planet is made of, how it has changed over time and how its systems interact, including the oceans and its magnetic field. Geochemists can apply their skills and knowledge to study the chemistry of meteorites and other samples of space rock (cosmochemistry) as well as using telescopes to study the chemistry of material in space (astrochemistry). Atmospheric science is the scientific and mathematical study of the Earth's atmosphere, climate, and weather.

Modern telescopes have lots of sensitive instruments on them that can make different measurements and record different types of data. They can also weigh thousands of tonnes and are often located in extreme environments, high up on mountains in deserts. The James Webb Space Telescope team also face the challenge of getting it to work in space.

Perhaps you are more interested in history but like astronomy as a hobby? Well, there are careers looking at the history of astronomy, both ancient and modern.

If you love history and astronomy, then these jobs might interest you: Historian (Astronomy, Science or Cultural), Author, Museum Curator, Librarian, Archaeoastronomer, Conservationist, Anthropologist. Many people working in this field, work in both a physics and an arts department.

There are many ways to dive deeper into astronomy and space science, whether you're just starting or already passionate about the stars. Explore how you can get involved, learn more, and connect with others who share your interest. 

Planetary science also includes doing experiments on Earth in laboratories. Scientists can study rocks brought back by space missions or meteorites that have landed on Earth. They can also test places on Earth that are like Mars or an Icy Moon and try to create those environments in labs.

If you are passionate about explaining science and sharing knowledge, then these jobs might interest you: Teacher, Museum Educator, STEM club Educator, Science Communicator, Medical or Technical Writer, Science Journalist, TV Presenter, Author. Some scientists combine being a researcher and a communicator. Others switch to full-time science communication or teaching.

While researching careers in space, you may read about astronomy, astrophysics, and cosmology. Astronomy is the main term we use to talk about studying objects in space. This could involve space missions, measuring the positions of objects in the night sky, or controlling a telescope. Astrophysics is a branch of astronomy which looks in more detail at how physics works in space.

You might be surprised at just how many careers involve an interest in space. You could be an astronaut! You could explain orbits to primary school children! You could use satellites to study climate change on Earth. Ask yourself, what are you interested in?