Astronomy is the scientific study of celestial objects. These objects can be stars, planets, comets, and galaxies! Essentially, it is phenomena from outside Earth’s atmosphere.
An astronomer is a scientist who focuses their studies on a specific question or field outside the scope of Earth.
Astronomers usually fall under two main types: observational and theoretical. Observational astronomers make direct observations of celestial objects. Then, they analyse the data. But, Theoretical astronomers create and investigate models of unobservable things.
The bulk of an astronomer’s job is research. This is because their role focuses on understanding how the universe works!
Astronomers usually focus on one sub-field. The four sub-fields of Astronomy are Astrophysics, Astrogeology, Astrometry and Astrobiology. You can read more about these sub-fields here >>
Historically, astronomy looked at classifying and describing things in the sky. Yet, modern astronomy looks at elements and motions instead. Astronomy has subfields that scientists can specialise in.
You can find out more at:
Find out about the latest astronomy news here >>
Read more on becoming an astronomer here >>
This article was written by work experience, Sophie.
