Astronomer facts for kids

An astronomer is a scientist who studies everything outside of Earth. They look at amazing things like stars, planets, moons, comets, and galaxies. Astronomers can do this in two main ways: by observing things directly or by using math and computers to create models.

Some topics astronomers study include planetary science (about planets), solar astronomy (about our Sun), how stars are born and change, or how galaxies form. Another related field is physical cosmology, which studies the entire Universe.

Types of Astronomers

Astronomers usually fit into two main groups: observational and theoretical.

• Observational astronomers use telescopes and other tools to directly watch objects in space. They collect data and then study it.
• Theoretical astronomers use math and computer programs to create models and simulations of things that are hard to observe directly. For example, they might model how a galaxy changes over billions of years.

Because it takes a very long time for stars or galaxies to complete their life cycles, astronomers observe many different systems at various stages. This helps them understand how these objects form, change, and eventually end. They use this information to build models and theories about how space works.

There are also many special areas within astronomy. Some astronomers focus on planets, while others study astrobiology (life in space), stellar astronomy (stars), or galactic astronomy (galaxies). Some even specialize in how they observe, like using infrared light or gravitational waves.

Becoming an Astronomer

A Look at History

Galileo is often called the father of modern astronomy.

Johannes Kepler, another important figure in modern astronomy.

Long ago, astronomy was mostly about finding and describing things in the sky. Astrophysics then tried to explain why these things happened using physics laws. Today, these two fields are very similar. The words "astronomer" and "astrophysicist" are often used to mean the same thing.

Professional astronomers are highly educated. They usually have a special degree called a PhD in physics or astronomy. They often work at research centers or universities. Most of their time is spent doing research. However, they also teach students, help build new instruments, or work at observatories.

For example, the American Astronomical Society in North America has about 8,200 members. The International Astronomical Union has about 12,700 members from 92 countries. These are scientists who do astronomy research.

Portrait of Ferdinand Verbiest, a Flemish astronomer who worked for the Chinese emperor in the 1600s.

You might imagine an old astronomer looking through a telescope all night. But today, it's different! Modern astronomers often use special digital cameras called charge-coupled devices (CCDs). These cameras can collect light over a long time to create very clear images. Before CCDs, they used photographic plates. Today, astronomers spend only a few weeks a year at telescopes. Most of their time is spent analyzing the data they collect and figuring out what it means.

Training and Activities

Astronomers who teach at universities spend a lot of time with students. Many universities also have programs for the public, like allowing people to look through telescopes or visiting planetariums. This helps get more people interested in space.

If you want to be an astronomer, it's good to study physics, mathematics, other sciences, and computing in high school. In college, you'll learn how to do research, write papers, and give presentations. Most astronomers get a Master's degree and then a PhD in astronomy, physics, or astrophysics.

A PhD usually takes 5-6 years. During this time, students take advanced classes, do research projects, and write a big paper called a PhD thesis. They also get experience teaching and helping with public programs. Students usually receive money to help them during their PhD studies.

Amateur Astronomers

While there aren't many professional astronomers, many people enjoy astronomy as a hobby. These are called amateur astronomers. Most cities have amateur astronomy clubs that meet regularly and host "star parties" where people can look at the night sky together. The Astronomical Society of the Pacific is a large group that includes both professional and amateur astronomers, as well as teachers.

Many amateurs spend a few hours a month looking at stars and reading about new discoveries. But some amateurs are very serious. They own powerful telescopes and instruments. They can even make their own discoveries, take amazing pictures of space, and help professional astronomers with their research.

See also

In Spanish: Astrónomo para niños

• List of astronomers
• List of women astronomers
• List of Muslim astronomers
• List of French astronomers
• List of Hungarian astronomers
• List of Russian astronomers and astrophysicists
• List of Slovenian astronomers