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Astronomers - 19-2011.00

O*NET-SOC Description

Observe, research, and interpret astronomical phenomena to increase basic knowledge or apply such information to practical problems.

Sample of Reported Job Titles

  • Astronomer
  • Astrophysicist
  • Data Scientist
  • Research Scientist
  • Scientist

SOC Occupation Groups

Related Occupations

Tasks

  • Analyze research data to determine its significance, using computers.
  • Calculate orbits and determine sizes, shapes, brightness, and motions of different celestial bodies.
  • Collaborate with other astronomers to carry out research projects.
  • Conduct question-and-answer presentations on astronomy topics with public audiences.
  • Develop and modify astronomy-related programs for public presentation.
  • Develop instrumentation and software for astronomical observation and analysis.
  • Develop theories based on personal observations or on observations and theories of other astronomers.
  • Direct the operations of a planetarium.
  • Measure radio, infrared, gamma, and x-ray emissions from extraterrestrial sources.
  • Mentor graduate students and junior colleagues.
  • Present research findings at scientific conferences and in papers written for scientific journals.
  • Raise funds for scientific research.
  • Review scientific proposals and research papers.
  • Serve on professional panels and committees.
  • Study celestial phenomena, using a variety of ground-based and space-borne telescopes and scientific instruments.
  • Supervise students' research on celestial and astronomical phenomena.
  • Teach astronomy or astrophysics.

Detailed Work Activities

  • Advise students on academic or career matters.
  • Analyze operational or research data.
  • Collaborate on research activities with scientists or technical specialists.
  • Develop software or applications for scientific or technical use.
  • Develop theories or models of physical phenomena.
  • Direct scientific activities.
  • Instruct college students in physical or life sciences.
  • Measure environmental characteristics.
  • Measure radiation levels.
  • Prepare proposals or grant applications to obtain project funding.
  • Prepare scientific or technical reports or presentations.
  • Provide technical information or assistance to public.
  • Review professional literature to maintain professional knowledge.
  • Serve on institutional or departmental committees.
  • Supervise student research or internship work.
  • Support the professional development of others.

Military Crosswalk Titles

  • Army Astronaut (Army - Commissioned Officer only)
  • Astronaut (Air Force - Commissioned Officer only)
  • Naval Observatory Officer (Navy - Commissioned or Warrant Officer)
  • Physicist/Nuclear Engineer (Air Force - Commissioned Officer only)
  • Physicist/Nuclear Engineer, ABM (if Prefix N) (Air Force - Commissioned Officer only)
  • Physicist/Nuclear Engineer, Airlift (Air Force - Commissioned Officer only)
  • Physicist/Nuclear Engineer, Bomber (Air Force - Commissioned Officer only)
  • Physicist/Nuclear Engineer, C2ISREW (Air Force - Commissioned Officer only)
  • Physicist/Nuclear Engineer, Fighter (Air Force - Commissioned Officer only)
  • Physicist/Nuclear Engineer, General (Air Force - Commissioned Officer only)
  • Physicist/Nuclear Engineer, Helicopter or EWO (Air Force - Commissioned Officer only)
  • Physicist/Nuclear Engineer, Nuclear (Air Force - Commissioned Officer only)
  • Physicist/Nuclear Engineer, RPA (Air Force - Commissioned Officer only)
  • Physicist/Nuclear Engineer, Special Operations (Air Force - Commissioned Officer only)
  • Physicist/Nuclear Engineer, Tanker (Air Force - Commissioned Officer only)
  • Physicist/Nuclear Engineer, Trainer (Air Force - Commissioned Officer only)

Apprenticeship Crosswalk Titles

No information available.

DOT Crosswalk Titles

  • Astronomer