1. Astrophotographer

National average salary: ?2,60,135 per year

Primary duties: Astrophotographers capture images of objects in space using point-and-shoot cameras, telescopes and other types of photographic devices. Using their technical skills, they capture high-quality photographs and produce detailed and insightful images of the universe. Universities and government agencies often hire astrophotographers to capture and study the movements and atmospheres of other planets. Typically, astrophotographers start out as regular photographers who develop an advanced

2. Astrophysics Technologist

National average salary: ?3,18,714 per year

Primary duties: Technologists have an important role in machinery maintenance, construction, operations and specialised technology. In astrophysics, technologists run and manage machines that gather astronomical data and apply data to astronomical studies. When the need arises, these specialists can operate instruments and take on a broader supervisory role in machine management.

3. Geologist

National average salary: ?3,19,006 per year

Primary duties: Geologists study the Earth's materials and land to understand various physical aspects of the planet, such as its structure, composition and processes. They learn about the history of the Earth and predict future geological occurrences. Individuals in this role use their knowledge to better understand the planet's natural disasters, natural resources and environmental conditions. They use their physics, chemistry and biology expertise to explain certain phenomena. Geologists also analyse photographs, mineral samples and other data to locate reservoirs of various natural resources.

4. Research Engineer

National average salary: ?3,82,603 per year

Primary duties: Astrophysics research engineers conduct research to help with the design and construction of spacecraft, space observation tools and suits for aerospace pilots and astronauts. When they work on a team, they research various aspects of a project and conduct tests to ensure the safety and functionality of designs. This role also involves reporting their findings to project managers and senior scientists.

5. Meteorologist

National average salary: ?4,42,233 per year

Primary duties: Meteorologists research and forecast changes in the Earth's atmosphere. They study current atmospheric and climatic conditions and review historical data to make predictions. Meteorologists also focus on how the Earth's atmosphere changes and responds to different elements. Understanding how the universe outside the atmosphere works is fundamental for studying the activity within it.

6. Aeronautical Engineer

National average salary: ?4,71,971 per year

Primary duties: Aeronautical engineers design, test and use technology for flight beyond Earth's atmosphere. They create energy-efficient machines for space exploration by combining their knowledge of aviation and technology. Topics they study include astrophysics, atomic nuclear physics and planetary science, which helps them develop spacecraft, such as rockets and satellites. They also design navigation and communication systems that function through space. Employers expect aeronautical engineers to address potential issues during the spacecraft manufacturing process. They also inspect existing aircraft and spacecraft to make design suggestions.

7. Senior Scientist

National average salary: ?4,80,435 per year

Primary duties: Senior scientists are leaders of scientific teams involved in research and development. When working in astrophysics, individuals in this career field lead teams that include engineers, scientists and research technicians. The primary responsibilities of these teams involve conducting experiments, developing spacecraft and consulting with project managers and directors to fulfil objectives.

8. Research Scientist

National average salary: ?5,73,599 per year

Primary duties: Research scientists plan and conduct experiments in many areas of science, including astronomy and astrophysics. They investigate, record and analyse different astrophysics phenomena. These scientists use specialised equipment and expertise to research planets, stars, galaxies and other objects in the solar system. They interpret the data they collect to track changes in the universe and make predictions about the future. Employers expect these individuals to be skilled in reporting, problem solving and mathematics to improve the collective knowledge of the universe.

9. Project Manager

National average salary: ?5,94,104 per year

Primary duties: When working in astrophysics, project managers conduct experiments, plan research studies and design and build space exploration missions and spacecraft. To succeed as a project manager, they require an advanced understanding of space engineering, astronomy principles and astrophysics theories. When managing a project, they take care of every phase, including assigning tasks to different departments and ensuring timely project completion.

10. Professor

National average salary: ?7,55,085 per year

Primary duties: University professors educate astrophysics students at the graduate and post-graduate levels and help them earn certifications, bachelor's degrees, master's degrees and doctorates. Astrophysics professors also conduct research and publish academic papers and books while teaching. They can work at either private or government universities. Depending on their interests, they might teach various subjects, including astrophysics, physics or chemistry.

11. Director Of Technology

National average salary: ?14,22,555 per year

Primary duties: When working in the astrophysics industry, these individuals lead the development of laboratory computer systems, satellites, telescopes and spacecraft. Part of their job involves leading a team of technology specialists to design, instal and repair the complex computer systems required for interspace communication and space exploration. Employers expect these individuals to monitor various technical operations related to the company for which they work.

Career Pros Details

Many budding scientists find a very promising career in astrophysics and the advantages are numerous. A Ph.D in this field earns an annual wage that exceeds the national average for all occupations. As of 2020, the median salary for a physicist is $129,850 and that of an astronomer is $104,740. As technology advances, astrophysicists constantly develop new skills. Additionally, astrophysicists are able to write the software code needed to collate the data they have collected.

Career Cons Details

While the upside is significant, there are some drawbacks to this career field. Most astrophysicist spend their time working in offices, laboratories, or observatories. This work can occasionally require long hours and travel to remote locations. Because of the nature of their work, they also often work at night collecting data. Furthermore, although the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a growth of seven percent in the field for the period of 2014 through 2024, federal government spending related to physics and astronomy research is not likely to increase. This trend may result in a decrease of available positions at colleges, universities and at national laboratories.

1. Dedication and patience

2. Outstanding observation and analytical skills

3. Exceptional quest and curiosity for research in Astronomy

4. Extra-ordinary passion towards the subject

5. Insatiable appetite for learning new methods and finding answers

6. Excellent understanding of Math and Physics