Ready to align your career with your love for the cosmos?
Here, you’ll find a rundown of the best jobs for astronomy aficionados. Designed for those who are spellbound by constellations, planets, and the mysteries of deep space, these jobs promise a fulfilling and well-compensated journey.
What Makes a Good Job for People Who Love Astronomy?
We narrowed down jobs that:
- Allow for direct interaction or observation of celestial bodies
- Offer research opportunities in astronomy or astrophysics
- Provide access to state-of-the-art telescopes and equipment
- Involve collaboration with other astronomy enthusiasts or professionals
- Have irregular hours to accommodate nighttime observations
Best Jobs for People Who Love Astronomy?
While some of the jobs listed may require a degree, many of them don’t and still fetch a high salary. There are plenty of opportunities in this field that can be attained based on skillsets and certifications alone.
Now, let’s dive into our curated list of job ideas for astronomy enthusiasts.
1. Space Weather Analyst
Average salary: $65,408
A Space Weather Analyst monitors solar activities and their impact on Earth and other celestial bodies.
Job duties:
- Tracking solar flares and radiation
- Analyzing data from satellite feeds
- Issuing space weather alerts
- Collaborating on research projects
- Providing updates to relevant space missions
- Preparing weather impact reports
Job requirements:
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Astronomy, Astrophysics, or related field
- Proficiency in data analysis software
- Understanding of solar physics
- Strong communication skills
- Ability to work irregular hours
2. Data Analyst (Astronomy)
Average salary: $105,305
A Data Analyst in the field of astronomy analyzes and interprets data related to celestial phenomena.
Job duties:
- Collecting astronomical data
- Analyzing data sets from telescopes or satellites
- Identifying patterns or trends
- Collaborating with astronomers on findings
- Preparing reports for publication
- Presenting data to team members
Job requirements:
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Astronomy, Astrophysics, or related field
- Proficiency in data analytics tools like Python or R
- Familiarity with telescope operations
- Strong attention to detail
- Collaborative team spirit
3. Astronomy Software Developer
Average salary: $88,989
An Astronomy Software Developer creates software to aid astronomers in data analysis, simulation, and observation.
Job duties:
- Designing astronomy software
- Coding and debugging
- Running software tests
- Collaborating with astronomers for requirements
- Updating existing software features
- Documenting code and usage instructions
Job requirements:
- Experience with programming languages like Python or C++
- Familiarity with astronomical data sets
- Strong debugging skills
- Good communication skills
4. Observatory Technician
Average salary: $51,790
An Observatory Technician, sometimes known as an Observatory Support Technician, maintains and operates equipment in astronomical observatories.
Job duties:
- Setting up telescopes
- Calibrating instruments
- Performing routine maintenance
- Assisting in observational tasks
- Troubleshooting technical issues
- Logging equipment usage and observations
Job requirements:
- Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Astronomy, Astrophysics, or related field
- Technical training in telescope operations
- Understanding of observational astronomy
- Mechanical aptitude
- Ability to work irregular hours
5. Science Writer
Average salary: $76,882
A Science Writer crafts articles and content that explain complex scientific topics to the public. Variations include science journalists or science communicators.
Job duties:
- Researching scientific topics
- Interviewing experts
- Writing articles
- Editing work for clarity
- Breaking down complex terms
- Meeting deadlines
- Collaborating with editors
Job requirements:
- Published writing samples
- Research skills
- Clear writing style
- Ability to meet deadlines
- Familiarity with scientific terminology
- Curiosity about scientific phenomena
6. Science Writer
Average salary: $39,661
A Science Writer covers scientific topics for various media outlets, often specializing in astronomy or astrophysics.
Job duties:
- Researching scientific topics
- Writing articles and reports
- Interviewing experts
- Covering scientific events
- Collaborating with editors
- Meeting publication deadlines
Job requirements:
- Knowledge of astronomy and astrophysics
- Proven writing portfolio
- Strong research skills
- Good interview skills
7. Science Illustrator
Average salary: $74,368
Planetarium Operator runs planetarium shows, educates visitors, and maintains the equipment.
Job duties:
- Operating planetarium system
- Presenting shows to visitors
- Creating new show content
- Performing system maintenance
- Assisting with educational programs
Job requirements:
- Experience in public speaking
- Familiarity with planetarium systems
- Technical aptitude for troubleshooting
- Good communication skills
8. Planet Hunter
Average salary: $87,000
A Planet Hunter identifies and studies exoplanets using telescopes and data analysis.
Job duties:
- Observing night skies
- Analyzing telescope data
- Documenting findings
- Collaborating with astronomers
- Publishing research papers
Job requirements:
- PhD in Astronomy or Astrophysics
- Proven research experience
- Skill in data analysis
- Proficiency in telescope use
- Good collaboration skills
9. Space Artist
Average salary: $79,194
A Space Artist creates visually compelling art inspired by space, often used in educational or outreach materials.
Job duties:
- Sketching preliminary concepts
- Producing digital or physical art
- Consulting with scientists
- Meeting project deadlines
- Updating art portfolios
Job requirements:
- Proven art portfolio with space-themed works
- Skills in digital art software
- Ability to collaborate on projects
- Interest in space science
10. Space Science Educator
Average salary: $53,178
A Space Science Educator teaches the public about space science, often in settings like planetariums, museums, or schools.
Job duties:
- Designing lesson plans
- Teaching space-related topics
- Setting up demonstrations
- Creating educational materials
- Engaging with the public
Job requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in Education or Science
- Classroom teaching experience
- Public speaking skills
- Skill in developing educational content
- Passion for space science
11. Space Policy Analyst
Average salary: $68,127
A space policy analyst examines and assesses policies related to space exploration and development.
Job duties:
- Researching space policies
- Advising policymakers
- Preparing reports
- Monitoring legislation
- Liaising with experts
Job requirements:
- Master’s degree in Public Policy or related field
- Knowledge of space law and policy frameworks
- Knowledge of space exploration issues
- Strong research skills
- Good written and oral communication
- Skill in data analysis
12. Space Tourism Guide
Average salary: $65,408
A Space Tourism Guide leads tourists on interstellar experiences, showing them the wonders of space. Also known as an astro-tour guide.
Job duties:
- Briefing tourists pre-flight
- Guiding space tours
- Ensuring safety protocols
- Answering questions about space
- Facilitating onboard activities
- Assisting with re-entry procedures
Job requirements:
- Commercial spaceflight training certification
- Familiarity with space equipment
- Strong communication skills
- Ability to handle emergencies
- Knowledge of astronomy
- Customer service skills
- Physically fit for space travel
13. Satellite Technician
Average salary: $60,500
A Satellite Technician installs, maintains, and repairs satellite systems. Variations include satellite maintenance engineer.
Job duties:
- Installing satellite equipment
- Running diagnostic tests
- Performing maintenance checks
- Updating system software
- Troubleshooting issues
- Repairing malfunctioning parts
Job requirements:
- Associate’s degree in engineering or related field
- Experience with satellite systems
- Strong technical skills
- Proficient with tools and equipment
- Detail-oriented
- Problem-solving skills
- Ability to work at heights
See, There Are Careers for Astronomy Enthusiasts!
From planet hunter to satellite technician, these high-paying jobs cater to the passions of astronomy enthusiasts.
Which of these cosmic careers resonates with you the most? We’d love to hear your choice in the comments below.