Astronomy is the scientific study of the universe, celestial bodies, the forces developed through their interactions, and other observable phenomena in space. Astronomy is an exact science; it relies on fixed laws and meticulous research methods, which allow us to make accurate predictions.
The most common celestial bodies studied by astronomers are the moon, the sun, the stars, other planets and satellites, comets, asteroids, and so on.
Astronomy is part of Space Sciences, which include other disciplines like Astrophysics, Planetary Science, Meteorology, Space Travel and Exploration. Space Sciences disciplines have in common the use of highly-advanced vehicles and machines — e.g. spacecraft, satellites, space stations, space probes, robots — to explore the Earth’s atmosphere as well as other objects that naturally exist in space.
While studying Astronomy, you explore subjects like Astrobiology, Geology of the Solar Systems, Galaxies and Cosmology, Observational Astronomy, Evolution of the Solar System, Stellar Astrophysics, Modern Physics, Oscillations and Waves, etc. The curriculum usually blends theoretical lectures with observatory practices, computer programming, and simulations.
Many Astronomy graduates choose to continue their studies in research, in a specialised area of astronomy. Career prospects include traditional positions such as scientist, technician, engineer, astronomer, or manager within an observatory or an institute.
Read moreView all PhDs in Astronomy & Space Sciences. Keep in mind you can also study an online PhDs in Astronomy & Space Sciences.