[Core] [23% incumbents] Analyze research data to determine its significance, using computers.
  DWAs: Analyze operational or research data.

[Core] [23% incumbents] Present research findings at scientific conferences and in papers written for scientific journals.
  DWAs: Prepare scientific or technical reports or presentations.

[Core] [23% incumbents] Study celestial phenomena, using a variety of ground-based and space-borne telescopes and scientific instruments.
  DWAs: Direct scientific activities.

[Core] [23% incumbents] Collaborate with other astronomers to carry out research projects.
  DWAs: Collaborate on research activities with scientists or technical specialists.

[Core] [23% incumbents] Mentor graduate students and junior colleagues.
  DWAs: Support the professional development of others. | Advise students on academic or career matters.

[Core] [23% incumbents] Supervise students' research on celestial and astronomical phenomena.
  DWAs: Supervise student research or internship work.

[Core] [23% incumbents] Teach astronomy or astrophysics.
  DWAs: Instruct college students in physical or life sciences.

[Core] [23% incumbents] Develop theories based on personal observations or on observations and theories of other astronomers.
  DWAs: Develop theories or models of physical phenomena.

[Core] [23% incumbents] Measure radio, infrared, gamma, and x-ray emissions from extraterrestrial sources.
  DWAs: Measure environmental characteristics. | Measure radiation levels.

[Core] [23% incumbents] Develop instrumentation and software for astronomical observation and analysis.
  DWAs: Develop software or applications for scientific or technical use.

[Core] [23% incumbents] Review scientific proposals and research papers.
  DWAs: Review professional literature to maintain professional knowledge.

[Core] [23% incumbents] Raise funds for scientific research.
  DWAs: Prepare proposals or grant applications to obtain project funding.

[Core] [23% incumbents] Develop and modify astronomy-related programs for public presentation.
  DWAs: Provide technical information or assistance to public.

[Core] [23% incumbents] Serve on professional panels and committees.
  DWAs: Serve on institutional or departmental committees.

[Core] [23% incumbents] Calculate orbits and determine sizes, shapes, brightness, and motions of different celestial bodies.
  DWAs: Measure environmental characteristics. | Apply mathematical principles or statistical approaches to solve problems in scientific or applied fields.

[Core] [23% incumbents] Conduct question-and-answer presentations on astronomy topics with public audiences.
  DWAs: Provide technical information or assistance to public.

[Supplemental] [23% incumbents] Direct the operations of a planetarium.
  DWAs: Direct scientific activities.

[EMERGING:Revision] Write and review scientific proposals and research papers.

--- SKILLS ---
  Reading Comprehension (imp:4.25 lvl:5.12) — Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
  Science (imp:4.25 lvl:5.12) — Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
  Writing (imp:4.12 lvl:5.00) — Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audienc
  Mathematics (imp:4.12 lvl:5.00) — Using mathematics to solve problems.
  Critical Thinking (imp:4.12 lvl:4.12) — Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternativ
  Active Listening (imp:4.00 lvl:4.12) — Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand
  Speaking (imp:4.00 lvl:4.75) — Talking to others to convey information effectively.
  Active Learning (imp:4.00 lvl:4.88) — Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future pr
  Learning Strategies (imp:3.75 lvl:4.00) — Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate fo
  Monitoring (imp:3.38 lvl:3.62) — Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organization

--- KNOWLEDGE ---
  Physics (imp:4.96 lvl:6.57) — Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships,
  Mathematics (imp:4.91 lvl:6.43) — Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their appl
  Computers and Electronics (imp:4.17 lvl:5.74) — Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and comput
  English Language (imp:4.04 lvl:4.83) — Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the mea
  Education and Training (imp:3.35 lvl:4.65) — Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching
  Engineering and Technology (imp:3.22 lvl:4.00) — Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. Th
  Chemistry (imp:3.00 lvl:4.09) — Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances a
  Communications and Media (imp:2.43 lvl:2.74) — Knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and m
  Administration and Management (imp:2.39 lvl:3.35) — Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, 
  Design (imp:2.35 lvl:2.74) — Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of 
  Personnel and Human Resources (imp:2.22 lvl:2.65) — Knowledge of principles and procedures for personnel recruitment, selection, tra
  Administrative (imp:2.09 lvl:2.61) — Knowledge of administrative and office procedures and systems such as word proce
  Telecommunications (imp:2.04 lvl:1.65) — Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of te
  Geography (imp:1.96 lvl:2.35) — Knowledge of principles and methods for describing the features of land, sea, an
  Mechanical (imp:1.91 lvl:2.13) — Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and main
  Biology (imp:1.83 lvl:1.78) — Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interd
  Economics and Accounting (imp:1.82 lvl:1.82) — Knowledge of economic and accounting principles and practices, the financial mar
  Customer and Personal Service (imp:1.74 lvl:1.74) — Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal servic
  Production and Processing (imp:1.74 lvl:1.43) — Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and ot
  Law and Government (imp:1.74 lvl:1.48) — Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulat
  Sales and Marketing (imp:1.68 lvl:1.50) — Knowledge of principles and methods for showing, promoting, and selling products
  Building and Construction (imp:1.65 lvl:1.61) — Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or r
  Foreign Language (imp:1.65 lvl:1.35) — Knowledge of the structure and content of a foreign (non-English) language inclu
  Public Safety and Security (imp:1.65 lvl:1.22) — Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote
  Transportation (imp:1.61 lvl:1.30) — Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea
  Psychology (imp:1.57 lvl:1.13) — Knowledge of human behavior and performance; individual differences in ability, 
  Sociology and Anthropology (imp:1.57 lvl:1.09) — Knowledge of group behavior and dynamics, societal trends and influences, human 
  History and Archeology (imp:1.48 lvl:1.13) — Knowledge of historical events and their causes, indicators, and effects on civi
  Therapy and Counseling (imp:1.39 lvl:1.00) — Knowledge of principles, methods, and procedures for diagnosis, treatment, and r
  Philosophy and Theology (imp:1.39 lvl:1.00) — Knowledge of different philosophical systems and religions. This includes their 
  Fine Arts (imp:1.30 lvl:0.65) — Knowledge of the theory and techniques required to compose, produce, and perform
  Medicine and Dentistry (imp:1.13 lvl:0.22) — Knowledge of the information and techniques needed to diagnose and treat human i
  Food Production (imp:1.00) — Knowledge of techniques and equipment for planting, growing, and harvesting food

--- ABILITIES ---
  Oral Comprehension (imp:4.12 lvl:5.12) — The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through 
  Written Comprehension (imp:4.12 lvl:5.00) — The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
  Oral Expression (imp:4.12 lvl:5.00) — The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will unde
  Written Expression (imp:4.12 lvl:5.00) — The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will under
  Deductive Reasoning (imp:4.12 lvl:4.75) — The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that 
  Inductive Reasoning (imp:4.12 lvl:4.88) — The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusion
  Mathematical Reasoning (imp:4.00 lvl:4.88) — The ability to choose the right mathematical methods or formulas to solve a prob
  Number Facility (imp:4.00 lvl:4.38) — The ability to add, subtract, multiply, or divide quickly and correctly.
  Information Ordering (imp:3.88 lvl:4.25) — The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according
  Flexibility of Closure (imp:3.88 lvl:4.38) — The ability to identify or detect a known pattern (a figure, object, word, or so
  Near Vision (imp:3.88 lvl:4.12) — The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
  Speech Clarity (imp:3.88 lvl:3.88) — The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.
  Fluency of Ideas (imp:3.75 lvl:4.25) — The ability to come up with a number of ideas about a topic (the number of ideas
  Originality (imp:3.75 lvl:4.12) — The ability to come up with unusual or clever ideas about a given topic or situa
  Far Vision (imp:3.75 lvl:4.00) — The ability to see details at a distance.
  Problem Sensitivity (imp:3.62 lvl:4.00) — The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does no
  Category Flexibility (imp:3.62 lvl:4.12) — The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping
  Selective Attention (imp:3.50 lvl:3.38) — The ability to concentrate on a task over a period of time without being distrac
  Speech Recognition (imp:3.38 lvl:3.50) — The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person.
  Perceptual Speed (imp:3.12 lvl:3.12) — The ability to quickly and accurately compare similarities and differences among
  Visual Color Discrimination (imp:3.00 lvl:3.00) — The ability to match or detect differences between colors, including shades of c
  Memorization (imp:2.88 lvl:2.62) — The ability to remember information such as words, numbers, pictures, and proced
  Visualization (imp:2.88 lvl:3.12) — The ability to imagine how something will look after it is moved around or when 
  Speed of Closure (imp:2.62 lvl:2.62) — The ability to quickly make sense of, combine, and organize information into mea
  Time Sharing (imp:2.62 lvl:2.62) — The ability to shift back and forth between two or more activities or sources of
  Depth Perception (imp:2.00 lvl:1.88) — The ability to judge which of several objects is closer or farther away from you
  Hearing Sensitivity (imp:1.88 lvl:1.50) — The ability to detect or tell the differences between sounds that vary in pitch 
  Auditory Attention (imp:1.88 lvl:1.50) — The ability to focus on a single source of sound in the presence of other distra
  Trunk Strength (imp:1.75 lvl:1.25) — The ability to use your abdominal and lower back muscles to support part of the 
  Finger Dexterity (imp:1.62 lvl:0.75) — The ability to make precisely coordinated movements of the fingers of one or bot
  Night Vision (imp:1.62 lvl:0.75) — The ability to see under low-light conditions.
  Spatial Orientation (imp:1.50 lvl:0.62) — The ability to know your location in relation to the environment or to know wher
  Wrist-Finger Speed (imp:1.50 lvl:0.50) — The ability to make fast, simple, repeated movements of the fingers, hands, and 
  Arm-Hand Steadiness (imp:1.38 lvl:0.50) — The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while hold
  Manual Dexterity (imp:1.25 lvl:0.25) — The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your
  Control Precision (imp:1.25 lvl:0.25) — The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehi
  Multilimb Coordination (imp:1.00) — The ability to coordinate two or more limbs (for example, two arms, two legs, or
  Response Orientation (imp:1.00) — The ability to choose quickly between two or more movements in response to two o
  Rate Control (imp:1.00) — The ability to time your movements or the movement of a piece of equipment in an
  Reaction Time (imp:1.00) — The ability to quickly respond (with the hand, finger, or foot) to a signal (sou
  Speed of Limb Movement (imp:1.00) — The ability to quickly move the arms and legs.
  Static Strength (imp:1.00) — The ability to exert maximum muscle force to lift, push, pull, or carry objects.
  Explosive Strength (imp:1.00) — The ability to use short bursts of muscle force to propel oneself (as in jumping
  Dynamic Strength (imp:1.00) — The ability to exert muscle force repeatedly or continuously over time. This inv
  Stamina (imp:1.00) — The ability to exert yourself physically over long periods of time without getti
  Extent Flexibility (imp:1.00) — The ability to bend, stretch, twist, or reach with your body, arms, and/or legs.
  Dynamic Flexibility (imp:1.00) — The ability to quickly and repeatedly bend, stretch, twist, or reach out with yo
  Gross Body Coordination (imp:1.00) — The ability to coordinate the movement of your arms, legs, and torso together wh
  Gross Body Equilibrium (imp:1.00) — The ability to keep or regain your body balance or stay upright when in an unsta
  Peripheral Vision (imp:1.00) — The ability to see objects or movement of objects to one's side when the eyes ar
  Glare Sensitivity (imp:1.00) — The ability to see objects in the presence of a glare or bright lighting.
  Sound Localization (imp:1.00) — The ability to tell the direction from which a sound originated.

--- WORK ACTIVITIES ---
  Working with Computers (imp:4.91 lvl:4.96) — Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to progra
  Analyzing Data or Information (imp:4.87 lvl:6.26) — Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by break
  Getting Information (imp:4.83 lvl:5.96) — Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sour
  Processing Information (imp:4.65 lvl:6.30) — Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying
  Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge (imp:4.57 lvl:6.04) — Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
  Making Decisions and Solving Problems (imp:4.41 lvl:5.74) — Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and sol
  Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events (imp:4.17 lvl:5.39) — Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or 
  Thinking Creatively (imp:4.17 lvl:5.91) — Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, syste
  Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information (imp:4.00 lvl:5.41) — Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resourc
  Documenting/Recording Information (imp:4.00 lvl:4.91) — Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in writte
  Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates (imp:3.91 lvl:5.00) — Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone,
  Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work (imp:3.78 lvl:5.04) — Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your
  Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others (imp:3.78 lvl:5.52) — Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
  Communicating with People Outside the Organization (imp:3.64 lvl:5.18) — Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organizatio
  Training and Teaching Others (imp:3.57 lvl:4.70) — Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or tr
  Developing Objectives and Strategies (imp:3.52 lvl:4.35) — Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to 
  Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships (imp:3.48 lvl:4.61) — Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and m
  Scheduling Work and Activities (imp:3.13 lvl:3.87) — Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.
  Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others (imp:3.00 lvl:4.05) — Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks.
  Developing and Building Teams (imp:3.00 lvl:3.64) — Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team membe
  Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates (imp:3.00 lvl:3.61) — Providing guidance and direction to subordinates, including setting performance 
  Coaching and Developing Others (imp:3.00 lvl:3.91) — Identifying the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherw
  Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People (imp:2.74 lvl:3.43) — Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.
  Providing Consultation and Advice to Others (imp:2.74 lvl:3.30) — Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical,
  Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards (imp:2.65 lvl:3.09) — Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events o
  Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings (imp:2.57 lvl:3.13) — Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment,
  Assisting and Caring for Others (imp:2.52 lvl:2.87) — Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other pe
  Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials (imp:2.48 lvl:2.57) — Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors o
  Performing Administrative Activities (imp:2.39 lvl:2.78) — Performing day-to-day administrative tasks such as maintaining information files
  Performing for or Working Directly with the Public (imp:2.33 lvl:2.55) — Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving
  Monitoring and Controlling Resources (imp:2.26 lvl:2.65) — Monitoring and controlling resources and overseeing the spending of money.
  Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others (imp:2.14 lvl:2.41) — Handling complaints, settling disputes, and resolving grievances and conflicts, 
  Controlling Machines and Processes (imp:2.09 lvl:1.83) — Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines 
  Selling or Influencing Others (imp:2.09 lvl:2.57) — Convincing others to buy merchandise/goods or to otherwise change their minds or
  Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment (imp:2.04 lvl:2.09) — Servicing, repairing, calibrating, regulating, fine-tuning, or testing machines,
  Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment (imp:2.00 lvl:2.26) — Providing documentation, detailed instructions, drawings, or specifications to t
  Handling and Moving Objects (imp:1.91 lvl:2.04) — Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials,
  Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment (imp:1.87 lvl:1.74) — Servicing, repairing, adjusting, and testing machines, devices, moving parts, an
  Staffing Organizational Units (imp:1.87 lvl:2.26) — Recruiting, interviewing, selecting, hiring, and promoting employees in an organ
  Performing General Physical Activities (imp:1.83 lvl:1.57) — Performing general physical activities includes doing activities that require co
  Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment (imp:1.43 lvl:0.91) — Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanized equipment, s

--- WORK STYLES ---
  Dependability (imp:7.00) — A tendency to be reliable, responsible, and consistent in meeting work-related o
  Attention to Detail (imp:6.00) — A tendency to be detail-oriented, organized, and thorough in completing work.
  Integrity (imp:5.00) — A tendency to be honest and ethical at work.
  Intellectual Curiosity (imp:4.00) — A tendency to seek out and acquire new work-related knowledge and obtain a deep 
  Achievement Orientation (imp:3.00) — A tendency to establish and maintain personally challenging work-related goals, 
  Intellectual Curiosity (imp:3.00) — A tendency to seek out and acquire new work-related knowledge and obtain a deep 
  Innovation (imp:2.55) — A tendency to be inventive, to be imaginative, and to adopt new perspectives on 
  Attention to Detail (imp:2.50) — A tendency to be detail-oriented, organized, and thorough in completing work.
  Achievement Orientation (imp:2.21) — A tendency to establish and maintain personally challenging work-related goals, 
  Perseverance (imp:2.15) — A tendency to exhibit determination and resolve to perform or complete tasks in 
  Dependability (imp:2.14) — A tendency to be reliable, responsible, and consistent in meeting work-related o
  Integrity (imp:2.06) — A tendency to be honest and ethical at work.
  Perseverance (imp:2.00) — A tendency to exhibit determination and resolve to perform or complete tasks in 
  Tolerance for Ambiguity (imp:1.99) — A tendency to be comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty at work.
  Self-Confidence (imp:1.83) — A tendency to believe in one's work-related capabilities and ability to control 
  Initiative (imp:1.75) — A tendency to be proactive and take on extra responsibilities and tasks that may
  Adaptability (imp:1.65) — A tendency to be open to and comfortable with change, new experiences, or ideas 
  Cooperation (imp:1.47) — A tendency to be pleasant, helpful, and willing to assist others at work.
  Cautiousness (imp:1.38) — A tendency to be careful, deliberate, and risk-avoidant when making work-related
  Social Orientation (imp:1.27) — A tendency to seek out, enjoy, and be energized by social interaction at work.
  Leadership Orientation (imp:1.26) — A tendency to lead, take charge, offer opinions, and provide direction at work.
  Stress Tolerance (imp:1.14) — A tendency to cope and function effectively in stressful situations at work.
  Innovation (imp:1.00) — A tendency to be inventive, to be imaginative, and to adopt new perspectives on 
  Self-Control (imp:1.00) — A tendency to remain calm and composed and to manage emotions effectively in res
  Sincerity (imp:0.88) — A tendency to be genuine and sincere in interactions with others at work, withou
  Humility (imp:0.70) — A tendency to be modest and humble when interacting with others at work.
  Optimism (imp:0.64) — A tendency to exhibit a positive attitude and positive emotions at work, even un
  Empathy (imp:0.52) — A tendency to show concern for others and be sensitive to others' needs and feel
  Tolerance for Ambiguity () — A tendency to be comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty at work.
  Initiative () — A tendency to be proactive and take on extra responsibilities and tasks that may
  Adaptability () — A tendency to be open to and comfortable with change, new experiences, or ideas 
  Self-Confidence () — A tendency to believe in one's work-related capabilities and ability to control 
  Leadership Orientation () — A tendency to lead, take charge, offer opinions, and provide direction at work.
  Humility () — A tendency to be modest and humble when interacting with others at work.
  Sincerity () — A tendency to be genuine and sincere in interactions with others at work, withou
  Empathy () — A tendency to show concern for others and be sensitive to others' needs and feel
  Cooperation () — A tendency to be pleasant, helpful, and willing to assist others at work.
  Optimism () — A tendency to exhibit a positive attitude and positive emotions at work, even un
  Social Orientation () — A tendency to seek out, enjoy, and be energized by social interaction at work.
  Cautiousness () — A tendency to be careful, deliberate, and risk-avoidant when making work-related
  Stress Tolerance () — A tendency to cope and function effectively in stressful situations at work.
  Self-Control () — A tendency to remain calm and composed and to manage emotions effectively in res

--- TRANSFERABLE SKILLS ---
  Judgment and Decision Making (imp:3.62 lvl:3.88) — Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the m
  Complex Problem Solving (imp:3.50 lvl:4.00) — Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and ev
  Social Perceptiveness (imp:3.12 lvl:3.12) — Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.
  Coordination (imp:3.12 lvl:3.12) — Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
  Persuasion (imp:3.00 lvl:3.12) — Persuading others to change their minds or behavior.
  Instructing (imp:3.00 lvl:3.62) — Teaching others how to do something.
  Systems Analysis (imp:3.00 lvl:3.00) — Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, 
  Systems Evaluation (imp:3.00 lvl:3.00) — Identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed 
  Management of Personnel Resources (imp:3.00 lvl:3.00) — Motivating, developing, and directing people as they work, identifying the best 
  Service Orientation (imp:2.88 lvl:3.00) — Actively looking for ways to help people.
  Time Management (imp:2.88 lvl:3.00) — Managing one's own time and the time of others.
  Negotiation (imp:2.62 lvl:2.62) — Bringing others together and trying to reconcile differences.
  Operations Analysis (imp:2.62 lvl:3.12) — Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design.
  Management of Financial Resources (imp:2.50 lvl:2.50) — Determining how money will be spent to get the work done, and accounting for the
  Programming (imp:2.25 lvl:2.00) — Writing computer programs for various purposes.
  Technology Design (imp:2.00 lvl:2.00) — Generating or adapting equipment and technology to serve user needs.
  Operations Monitoring (imp:2.00 lvl:2.00) — Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working pr
  Management of Material Resources (imp:2.00 lvl:2.00) — Obtaining and seeing to the appropriate use of equipment, facilities, and materi
  Operation and Control (imp:1.75 lvl:1.00) — Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
  Quality Control Analysis (imp:1.75 lvl:1.00) — Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate
  Equipment Selection (imp:1.62 lvl:0.75) — Determining the kind of tools and equipment needed to do a job.
  Equipment Maintenance (imp:1.38 lvl:0.38) — Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind o
  Troubleshooting (imp:1.38 lvl:0.38) — Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.
  Repairing (imp:1.12 lvl:0.12) — Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.
  Installation (imp:1.00) — Installing equipment, machines, wiring, or programs to meet specifications.

--- NATIONAL WAGES ---
  total_employment : 2,120
  annual_median    : $128,820
  annual_pct10     : $78,010
  annual_pct25     : $99,920
  annual_pct75     : $166,000
  annual_pct90     : $195,190
  annual_mean      : $132,920
  hourly_median    : $61.94

--- GEOGRAPHIC DISPERSION ---
  highest_state    : Maryland ($132,620)
  lowest_state     : Hawaii ($102,000)
  dispersion_ratio : 1.300x

--- TOP STATES BY WAGE (5 total) ---
  Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services emp:    1,140  median: $ 127,290
  Federal, State, and Local Government, excluding State and Local Government Schools and Hospitals and the U.S. Postal Service (OEWS Designation) emp:      490  median: $ 170,980
  Educational Services                     emp:      470  median: $ 102,330

--- TOP INDUSTRIES BY EMPLOYMENT (3 total) ---
  Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services emp:    1,140  median: $ 127,290
  Federal, State, and Local Government, excluding State and Local Government Schools and Hospitals and the U.S. Postal Service (OEWS Designation) emp:      490  median: $ 170,980
  Educational Services                     emp:      470  median: $ 102,330

exact_match_status : found
matched_title      : Astronomer
match_score        : 0.9524
wikidata_qid       : Q11063
word_count         : 892
wikipedia_url      : https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Astronomer
license            : CC BY-SA 4.0
fetched_at         : 2026-06-02T20:46:29.287525Z

--- WIKIPEDIA FULL TEXT ---
An astronomer is a scientist in the field of astronomy who focuses on a specific question or field outside the scope of Earth. Astronomers study astronomical objects, such as stars, planets, moons, comets and galaxies, by some combination of observation and the application of astrophysical models. Examples of topics or fields astronomers study include planetary science, solar astronomy, the origin or evolution of stars, or the formation of galaxies. A related but distinct subject is physical cosmology, which studies the universe as a whole.


== Character of work ==
Astronomers cannot typically perform experiments: the objects of interest in the field are far away. Consequently they rely primarily on observations, collecting electromagnetic radiation, gravitational waves, or particles such as cosmic rays. Some experiments on planets in the solar system are now possible via remote controlled spacecraft.  Some of the measurements astronomers perform include astrometry (positions of celestial bodies), photometry (light flux), spectroscopy (intensity vs wavelength), and imaging.


== Subfields ==
Astronomy includes astrometry, planetary astronomy, astrophysics, astrochemistry, astrobiology, stellar astronomy,  galactic astronomy, extragalactic astronomy, and physical cosmology.
Astronomers can also specialize in certain specialties of observational astronomy, such as infrared astronomy, neutrino astronomy, x-ray astronomy, and gravitational-wave astronomy.


== Academic ==


=== History ===

Historically, astronomy was more concerned with the classification and description of phenomena in the sky, while astrophysics attempted to explain these phenomena and the differences between them using physical laws. Today, that distinction has mostly disappeared and the terms "astronomer" and "astrophysicist" are interchangeable. Professional astronomers are highly educated individuals who typically have a PhD in physics or astronomy and are employed by research institutions or universities. They spend the majority of their time working on research, although they quite often have other duties such as teaching, building instruments, or aiding in the operation of an observatory.
The American Astronomical Society, which is the major organization of professional astronomers in North America, has approximately 8,200 members (as of 2024). This number includes scientists from other fields such as physics, geology, and engineering, whose research interests are closely related to astronomy. The International Astronomical Union comprises about 12,700 members from 92 countries who are involved in astronomical research at the PhD level and beyond (as of 2024).
Contrary to the classical image of an old astronomer peering through a telescope through the dark hours of the night, it is far more common to use a charge-coupled device (CCD) camera to record a long, deep exposure, allowing a more sensitive image to be created because the light is added over time. Before CCDs, photographic plates were a common method of observation. Modern astronomers spend relatively little time at telescopes, usually just a few weeks per year. Analysis of observed phenomena, along with making predictions as to the causes of what they observe, takes the majority of observational astronomers' time.


=== Activities and graduate degree training ===
Astronomers who serve as faculty spend much of their time teaching undergraduate and graduate classes. Most universities also have outreach programs, including public telescope time and sometimes planetariums, as a public service to encourage interest in the field.
Those who become astronomers usually have a broad background in physics, mathematics, sciences, and computing in high school. Taking courses that teach how to research, write, and present papers are part of the higher education of an astronomer, while most astronomers attain both a Master's degree and eventually a PhD degree in astronomy, physics or astrophysics.
PhD training typically involves 5–6 years of study, including completion of upper-level courses in the core sciences, a competency examination, experience with teaching undergraduates and participating in outreach programs, work on research projects under the student's supervising professor, completion of a PhD thesis, and passing a final oral exam. Throughout the PhD training, a successful student is financially supported with a stipend.


== Amateur astronomers ==

While there is a relatively low number of professional astronomers, the field is popular among amateurs. Most cities have amateur astronomy clubs that meet on a regular basis and often host star parties. The Astronomical Society of the Pacific is the largest general astronomical society in the world, comprising both professional and amateur astronomers as well as educators from 70 different nations. 
As with any hobby, most people who practice amateur astronomy may devote a few hours a month to stargazing and reading the latest developments in research. However, amateurs span the range from so-called "armchair astronomers" to people who own science-grade telescopes and instruments with which they are able to make their own discoveries, create astrophotographs, and assist professional astronomers in research.


== See also ==
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


== References ==


=== Sources ===
Dallal A (1999). "Science, Medicine and Technology". In Esposito J (ed.). The Oxford History of Islam. Oxford University Press, New York. ISBN 0-300-15911-0.
Kennedy E (1956), A Survey of Islamic Astronomical Tables; Transactions of the American Philosophical Society, vol. 46, Philadelphia: American Philosophical Society
Toomer G (1990). "Al-Khwārizmī, Abu Jaʿfar Muḥammad ibn Mūsā". In Gillispie, Charles Coulston (ed.). Dictionary of Scientific Biography. Vol. 7. New York: Charles Scribner's Sons. ISBN 0-684-16962-2.


== External links ==
American Astronomical Society
European Astronomical Society
International Astronomical Union
Astronomical Society of the Pacific
Space's astronomy news

--- SEMANTIC NEIGHBORS (5) ---

  Title: Astronomer (disambiguation) (similarity: 0.5789)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Astronomer_(disambiguation)
  QID: Q7714766
  Extract: An astronomer is a scientist in the field of astronomy. "Astronomer" or "The Astronomer" may also refer to:Vita Hludovici or the "Limousin Astronomer", the anonymous author of the Vita Hludovici, a biography of Holy Roman Emperor Louis the Pious
The Astronomer (Vermeer), a 1668 oil painting by the 1

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  Extract: Claudius Ptolemy, better known mononymously as Ptolemy, was a Greco-Roman mathematician, astronomer, astrologer, geographer, and music theorist who wrote about a dozen scientific treatises, three of which were important to later Byzantine, Islamic, and Western European science. The first was his ast

  Title: Amateur astronomy (similarity: 0.5714)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amateur_astronomy
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  Extract: Amateur astronomy is a hobby where participants enjoy observing, studying, or imaging celestial objects in the sky using the unaided eye, binoculars, telescopes, and other gadgets. Although scientific research may not be their primary goal, some amateur astronomers contribute to citizen science by m

  Title: Farseem Mannan Mohammedy (similarity: 0.2857)
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  Extract: Farseem Mannan Mohammedy is a Bangladeshi engineer, academic and science organizer. He is a professor in the Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering at Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET). Mohammedy received the 2025 Bangla Academy Literary Award in the science cat

  Title: Royal Astronomical Society (similarity: 0.4865)
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  Extract: The Royal Astronomical Society (RAS) is a learned society and charity that encourages and promotes the study of astronomy, solar-system science, geophysics and closely related branches of science. Its headquarters are in Burlington House, on Piccadilly in London. The society has over 4,000 members, 

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model_pass2          : claude-haiku-4-5-20251001
inference_confidence : high
confidence_notes     : Confidence is high due to comprehensive O*NET data, exact Wikipedia match, clear educational requirements, and detailed task descriptions. The small employment base (2,120) provides focused wage and geographic data.
inferred_at          : 2026-06-03T15:35:42.049044+00:00
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wikipedia_used       : True
wikipedia_title      : Astronomer
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--- PROSE FIELDS ---

ROLE SUMMARY:
Astronomers observe, research, and interpret astronomical phenomena to advance our understanding of the universe and apply such knowledge to practical problems. They use ground-based and space-borne telescopes, scientific instruments, and computational analysis to study celestial objects including stars, planets, galaxies, and cosmic phenomena. These scientists contribute to fundamental research while often teaching at universities and mentoring the next generation of astronomers.

DAY IN THE LIFE:
Astronomers spend significant time analyzing research data using computers and specialized software to determine the significance of their observations. They operate various telescopes and scientific instruments to study celestial phenomena, measuring radio, infrared, gamma, and x-ray emissions from extraterrestrial sources. Much of their day involves processing vast amounts of information and developing theories based on observational data. They regularly collaborate with other astronomers on research projects, write scientific papers, and present findings at conferences. Many also dedicate time to teaching astronomy courses, supervising student research, and mentoring graduate students and junior colleagues.

WHO THRIVES:
Individuals who excel as astronomers demonstrate exceptional investigative and realistic personality traits, with strong intellectual curiosity and attention to detail being paramount. They possess advanced mathematical reasoning abilities and can handle complex problem-solving tasks that require both deductive and inductive reasoning skills. Successful astronomers are dependable researchers who can work independently for extended periods while maintaining high standards of integrity in their scientific work. They must have excellent written and oral communication skills to present complex findings to both scientific and public audiences. The role attracts those with deep fascination for understanding the fundamental nature of the universe and the patience for long-term research projects that may span years or decades.

CAREER ENTRY:
Entry into astronomy requires extensive preparation, with 65.2% of astronomers holding doctoral degrees and 26.1% completing post-doctoral training. The typical path involves earning a bachelor's degree in physics, astronomy, or mathematics, followed by graduate study specializing in specific areas like astrophysics, planetary science, or cosmology. During graduate school, aspiring astronomers gain hands-on research experience, often working on telescope observations and data analysis projects. Post-doctoral positions are common stepping stones that provide additional specialized training and research opportunities before securing permanent positions.

CAREER TRAJECTORY:
Astronomers typically progress from post-doctoral research positions to faculty roles at universities, staff scientist positions at observatories, or research roles in government agencies like NASA. Senior astronomers often lead major research programs, direct observatories, or hold distinguished professorships at prestigious institutions. Career advancement involves building expertise in specialized areas, securing research funding, and establishing international collaborations. Many senior astronomers also transition into science administration, directing space missions, or leading major astronomical facilities and research institutes.

MARKET INTELLIGENCE:
The astronomy field employs approximately 2,120 professionals nationwide with a median annual salary of $128,820 according to BLS OEWS May 2025 data. Salaries range from $78,010 at the 10th percentile to $195,190 at the 90th percentile, with geographic variation showing Maryland offering the highest compensation at $132,620 compared to Hawaii's $102,000. Employment is concentrated in professional, scientific, and technical services (1,140 positions), government agencies (490 positions), and educational institutions (470 positions). The field maintains steady but limited growth due to its highly specialized nature and dependence on government research funding. Competition for positions remains intense, particularly for tenure-track academic roles and prestigious observatory positions.

AUTOMATION OUTLOOK:
Astronomy faces moderate automation pressure in data processing and routine analysis tasks, as machine learning algorithms increasingly handle pattern recognition in large astronomical datasets. However, the core activities of developing theories, designing experiments, and interpreting complex phenomena remain largely human-driven due to their creative and conceptual nature. The profession may actually benefit from automation tools that enhance rather than replace human capabilities in data analysis and observation scheduling.

--- REASONED EDGES ---
  [knowledge_overlap] Physicists (19-2012.00) — confidence:high
    reasoning: Both roles require mastery of advanced physics knowledge at level 6+ and share mathematical reasoning abilities.
    data: Physics knowledge level 6.6 for astronomers
    data: Mathematics knowledge level 6.4
    data: Mathematical reasoning ability level 4.9
  [career_pathway] Physics Teachers, Postsecondary (25-1054.00) — confidence:high
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    data: Teach astronomy or astrophysics task
    data: Education and Training knowledge level 4.7
    data: Instruct college students work activity
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    data: Working with Computers importance 4.9
    data: Process vast amounts of information
  [riasec_cluster] Atmospheric and Space Scientists (19-2021.00) — confidence:high
    reasoning: Both share investigative and realistic personality orientations focused on scientific research of natural phenomena.
    data: Investigative RIASEC code 7.00
    data: Realistic RIASEC code 5.07
    data: Study celestial phenomena task
  [skill_overlap] Mathematicians (15-2021.00) — confidence:high
    reasoning: Both require advanced mathematics skills at level 5+ and strong mathematical reasoning abilities.
    data: Mathematics skill level 5.0
    data: Mathematics knowledge level 6.4
    data: Mathematical Reasoning ability level 4.9
  [job_zone] Biochemists and Biophysicists (19-1021.00) — confidence:medium
    reasoning: Both occupations require Job Zone 5 extensive preparation with doctoral-level education.
    data: Job Zone 5 classification
    data: 65.2% doctoral degree requirement
    data: 26.1% post-doctoral training

--- NORMALIZER SIGNALS ---
  match_keywords   : ['astronomer', 'astrophysicist', 'cosmologist', 'planetary astronomer', 'radio astronomer', 'galactic astronomer', 'extragalactic astronomer', 'optical astronomer']
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  title_patterns   : ['*astronomer', '*astrophysicist', 'astronomy *', 'planetary *', 'space scientist']
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source_layers  : onet_tasks | onet_dimensions | dwas | wikipedia | inference

TERM                    COUNT     FREQ  DOMINANT SOURCE      SOURCE BREAKDOWN
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
tendency                   42  0.01291  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
astronomers                39  0.01199  wikipedia            wikipedia:64%  inference:31%  onet_tasks:5%
others                     39  0.01199  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:97%  dwas:3%
research                   34  0.01046  inference            inference:41%  wikipedia:26%  onet_tasks:21%
astronomy                  30  0.00923  wikipedia            wikipedia:73%  inference:17%  onet_tasks:10%
equipment                  23  0.00707  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
scientific                 22  0.00677  inference            inference:32%  onet_tasks:27%  dwas:23%
astronomical               20  0.00615  wikipedia            wikipedia:70%  inference:20%  onet_tasks:10%
principles                 17  0.00523  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:94%  dwas:6%
objects                    17  0.00523  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:71%  wikipedia:18%  inference:12%
includes                   14  0.00430  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:86%  wikipedia:14%
activities                 14  0.00430  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:64%  dwas:21%  wikipedia:7%
science                    13  0.00400  wikipedia            wikipedia:69%  onet_dimensions:15%  inference:15%
control                    12  0.00369  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
public                     11  0.00338  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:36%  onet_tasks:18%  dwas:18%
problems                   11  0.00338  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:82%  dwas:9%  inference:9%
physical                   11  0.00338  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:55%  wikipedia:27%  dwas:18%
ideas                      11  0.00338  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
astronomer                 11  0.00338  wikipedia            wikipedia:100%
society                    11  0.00338  wikipedia            wikipedia:100%
phenomena                  10  0.00308  inference            inference:40%  wikipedia:30%  onet_tasks:20%
analysis                   10  0.00308  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:40%  inference:40%  onet_tasks:10%
teaching                   10  0.00308  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:50%  wikipedia:30%  inference:20%
techniques                 10  0.00308  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
materials                  10  0.00308  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
body                       10  0.00308  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
developing                 10  0.00308  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:80%  inference:20%
study                       9  0.00277  wikipedia            wikipedia:44%  inference:44%  onet_tasks:11%
monitoring                  9  0.00277  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:89%  wikipedia:11%
human                       9  0.00277  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:78%  inference:22%
resources                   9  0.00277  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
technical                   9  0.00277  dwas                 dwas:56%  onet_dimensions:33%  inference:11%
standards                   9  0.00277  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:89%  inference:11%
events                      9  0.00277  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:89%  wikipedia:11%
quickly                     9  0.00277  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
orientation                 9  0.00277  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
written                     8  0.00246  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:75%  onet_tasks:12%  inference:12%
programs                    8  0.00246  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:50%  wikipedia:25%  onet_tasks:12%
understanding               8  0.00246  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:75%  inference:25%
rules                       8  0.00246  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%