Promising Career In Astronomy

By: Feb 25th, 2017 12:08 am

htwAstronomy, the oldest and the most fascinating science, deals with all the celestial bodies and the material universe beyond the earth’s atmosphere. It is the science of the Universe which includes the study of motion, nature, law, constitution, history and possible future developments of heavenly bodies like the sun, planets, stars, comets, meteors, galaxies, satellites etc. Astronomy, sometimes considered as a sub-field of Physics is further divided into several branches such as Astrophysics, Astrometeorology, Astrobiology, Astrogeology, Astrometry, Cosmology etc. All these branches help to unravel the mysteries of the universe. It is a promising and amazing career for those who are interested in the mysteries of the universe and has a desire to unravel them. Since each country is going in for nuclear testing, the need for scientists in the filed of Astronomy is increasing. For entering into this field, one should be good at general physics. Astronomy is a vast field which varies from the instrument building teams to the theoretical branches where mathematical ability and physical intuition is essential.

Eligibility

A doctoral degree is the usual educational requirement to become an astronomer, since most of the work tends to be related to research and development. Those who opt for this field should pass their plus two examination under the science stream, especially in physics and maths. For pursuing a career in theoretical or observational astronomy one may go through the science stream after plus two. Since universities offering undergraduate programme in Astronomy are rarely found, one can join for a major/ honours in Physics with Mathematics as a subsidiary subject. Thereafter, take a master’s degree in Physics or Astronomy. After the successful completion of M.Sc, one can do specialization in astronomy leading to Ph. D. which enables one to become an astronomer/ astronaut/ astrophysicist or a scientist/ research officer etc.

Job Prospects

An astronomer usually works for the government, defence and space research organisations, electrical and electronic equipment manufacturers etc. They may work for commercial/ non-commercial research, development and testing laboratories, observatories, planetarium, Science Park etc. Degree/ Diploma/ Doctorate holder in these disciplines can find job opportunities in major establishments like the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC), Space Physics Laboratories, Space Applications Centres, etc. One can also join non-profit organizations like the Association of Bangalore Amateur Astronomers (ABAA) which is involved in telescope making, organizing observation sessions for the public and popularization of Astronomy. The prospects of traveling to far distant lands are also open as international seminars and conventions are held regularly in different countries.

Remuneration

The remuneration depends on the aspects of work, kind of organization and experience in the field. As a beginner in the research work, a junior can earn a monthly stipend of approximately Rs.10,000 per month. Government bodies and research institutes employ astronomers who are paid high salaries with other perk and allowances.

Institutes

*          National Centre for Radio Astrophysics, Pune, 020-25719000

*          Raman Research Institute, Bangalore, 080-23610122

*          Indian Institute of Astrophysics, Bangalore, 080- 25530672

*          1. Osmania University: College of Science, Hyderabad, 040-27070209

*          Aryabhatta Research Institute of Observational Sciences, Nainital, 05942-233734

Cartography : Perfect Blend Of Art And Science

htwCartography is the art and science of making and using maps, which are symbolic representations of geography. A professional who is skilled in drawing various kinds of maps and charts is known by the name Cartographer or a Map Maker. Cartographers are part of a larger occupational group called mapping scientists. A cartographer is involved with the scientific, technological and artistic aspects of developing and producing maps. Cartographers use data collected from surveys, aerial photographs, satellite images, and other sources to create maps, charts, and drawings of the Earth’s surface. Cartographers develop maps for a range of clients. This can be military maps to geological charts used by industries, as well as everyday maps detailing roads and footpaths for tourists or travelers. Cartographers collect, analyze, and interpret both spatial data—such as latitude, longitude, elevation, and distance—and non-spatial data—for example, population density, land-use patterns, annual precipitation levels, and demographic characteristics.

Course Areas

Most Cartographers earn a bachelor’s degree or diploma in Cartography or a similar field such as surveying, geography, geology, engineering, computer science, earth science or a physical science. Additional classes in mechanical drawing, drafting, geometry, trigonometry, algebra etc helps aspirants who wish to take up cartography as a career. Cartographers must have a sense of design to understand detailed photographs and drawings. Cartography is far more than just drawing maps; it involves a lot of research, study, and mathematical ability as well. To be an expert cartographer, one has to be very hard working and dedicated.

Career Options

Cartographers work within a variety of areas, including publishing, government, surveying and conservation. The government is one of the main employers of cartographers, in departments including Ordnance Survey, the Ministry of Defence, tourism departments and the Department of Transport. Several private sector organization using GIS and remote sensing technology also require the service of a qualified Cartographer. You could work for local authority planning departments, oil and utility companies, universities, commercial map publishers and the Geological Survey. Cartographers can join NGOs and other developmental agencies engaged in population studies, rural development and various environmental issues. Cartographers can also join the Survey of India or state Survey Departments or Private organizations such as Eicher maps, Google maps etc. Teaching in schools/colleges/universities is also a good option for a Cartographer. They can work with various research institutes. Some Cartographers, called project cartographers, work on a short-term freelance basis. Businesses that deal with selling maps, producing maps for encyclopedias, reference books and atlases, publishers, planners, engineers, architects also need cartographers.

Remuneration

Earnings are mainly based on factors such as educational qualification and work experience. Location is another important variable. Salary also depends on the organisation one works for. Probably private companies pay higher wages along with other benefits, when compared with government and public organisations. However, the initial package is not as lucrative as in other hot careers. In the field of Cartography, a qualified person can expect a starting salary somewhere around Rs. 10,000 – 15,000 per month. If one decides to join some overseas organization, he can get anywhere near Rs.5,00,000 to Rs.10,000,00 per year depending upon the organization. After a couple of years of experience one can earn as good as Rs.50,000 per month and more.


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