The word astronomy comes
from the Greek words "astron" which means star and "nomos" which means law. Astronomy is the study of the universe, the celestial objects that make up the
universe, and the processes that govern the lifecycle of those objects. It studies celestial objects (such as stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets and nebulae) and processes (such as supernovae explosions, gamma ray bursts, and cosmic microwave
background radiation).
There are two main branches of Astronomy:
Astrobiology – studies the advent and evolution of
biological systems in the universe.
Astrophysics – branch
of astronomy that deals with the physics of the universe, including the
physical properties of celestial objects, as well as their interactions and
behavior.
A person who studies
astronomy is called an astronomer Astronomers use the electromagnetic radiation emitted from stars and
other celestial objects, which can include visible light, UV, infrared, and
X-rays. Because the light from these objects is the primary means to study
them, one of the most important tools for an astronomer is the telescope. Astronomers
increase our understanding of the universe, and our place in it. Photos of
Earth and the “Pale Blue Dot” of our solar system taken from space convey the
fragility and isolation of our planet, and the importance of sustainability.
Astronomers warn us of solar storms that may affect power grids, and some
monitor space debris to prevent damage to satellites.
Astronomers may specialize in one of several sub-disciplines:
- Planetary astronomers focus on the life cycles of planets, and the discovery of new planets near other stars.
- Stellar astronomers study the life cycles of stars, and stellar phenomena such as black holes, nebulae (from which stars are born), white dwarfs, supernovas, and pulsars.
- Solar astronomers study the sun's systems and characteristics, such as its atmospheres, magnetic field, and storms. They may also research new methods of studying the sun.
- Galactic astronomers study the Milky Way galaxy, the galaxy in which we live.
- Cosmologists study the origin, history, and potential futures of the entire universe. Cosmology is an active field of study with several important theories under development, including string theory, dark matter and energy, and multiverses.
How do you become a
Astronomer :
Most astronomers have a Ph.D. in astronomy or physics.
Doctorates in these fields are required for faculty and research positions. In
some cases, doctorates in certain areas of engineering are adequate. Ph.D.
candidates should have a solid grounding in physics, as well as calculus,
statistics, and other types of mathematics. Computer skills are also essential
for analyzing and modeling data.
Those who don't continue past a bachelor's degree in physics
or astronomy may find work as assistants at observatories, or as technicians
and research assistants in engineering and computer science.
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