IKON
Edwin Powell Hubble, often referred to as the father of observational cosmology, initially pursued a career in law. However, he soon realized that his true passion lay in astronomy. This led him to study astronomy at Yerkes Observatory. In 1917, Hubble earned his doctorate in astronomy from the University of Chicago.
Hubble then joined the Mount Wilson Observatory in California, where he worked with two of the world’s largest telescopes, the 60-inch and 100-inch Hooker reflectors. Using the 100-inch Hooker telescope (financed by John D. Hooker), Hubble photographed Cepheid variables—a special type of star—proving the existence of numerous galaxies, including our Milky Way.
In addition to his discoveries, Hubble classified galaxies based on their content, distance, brightness, and shape. His observations led to the formulation of Hubble’s Law in 1929, which provided evidence that the universe is expanding and allowed astronomers to estimate its age. Hubble’s Law calculates the rate of the universe’s expansion, stating that it is expanding at a constant rate.
Hubble also played a key role in designing the 200-inch Hale telescope, which was the largest in the world at the time. Located at the Mount Palomar Observatory, the Hale telescope was four times more powerful than the Hooker telescope, enabling exploration beyond our galaxy.
What is the Job all about?
Astronomy is the branch of physics that studies celestial objects and the universe as a whole. While astronomy focuses on observing celestial objects and phenomena, astrophysics applies the principles of physics to understand the universe’s workings.
Astronomers typically specialize in one or more branches of astronomy:
• Astrophysics: Focuses on applying physics concepts to stellar atmospheres.
• Practical Astronomy: Involves observation, the use of astronomical instruments, and data analysis.
• Astrometry: Studies the geometrical relations of heavenly bodies, including their positions, distances, dimensions, surface features, and motions.
• Radio Astronomy: Investigates the sources of celestial radio waves.
• Research and Study: Many astronomers engage in both research and teaching, often spending long hours in observatories.
Can you go for it?
Career prospects in astronomy are bright for those with postgraduate degrees and PhDs in Physics, Mathematics, or Engineering, especially with a specialization in Astronomy and Astrophysics. There are excellent opportunities in government research institutions, academia, and industry.
It is advisable for students to gain proficiency in physics and mathematics at the undergraduate level before pursuing advanced studies in Astronomy and Astrophysics.
Is there a future in this field?
The discovery of the Supernova by the 2011 Nobel Prize winners in Physics underscores the ongoing need for research to understand the universe and celestial bodies. There is still much to learn about the workings of the universe and the existence of countless other galaxies.
Where to Begin
in Goa:
After completing 10+2, students can pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Physics or Mathematics, followed by a postgraduate degree in Physics from Goa University.
Outside Goa:
• Indian Institute of Astrophysics, Bangalore (Students selected through the Joint Entrance Screening Test – JEST)
• Inter-University Centre for Astronomy & Astrophysics (IUCAA), Pune – www.iucaa.in
• Harish-Chandra Research Institute (Formerly Mehta Research Institute of Mathematics & Mathematical Physics)
• Institute of Physics (IOP), Bhubaneswar
• Institute for Plasma Research (IPR), Gandhinagar
• Inter-University Consortium for DAE Facilities (IUC-DAEF), Indore
• Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research (JNCASR), Bangalore
• National Centre for Biological Sciences (NCBS)
• Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Bangalore
• National Centre for Radio Astrophysics (NCRA)
• Raman Research Centre, Bangalore
Employment avenues
Graduates can pursue careers as Scientists, Researchers, or Professors at the above institutions, or work with the Government of India in space research (ISRO), defense research and development (DRDO), and other related fields.
Salaries
India requires top talent for research and development, and the financial rewards reflect this demand. For those with exceptional skills, the compensation is highly competitive.
Don’t settle for just a degree or diploma — enhance your CV by completing online learning programs with certification in areas relevant to your chosen career. This will significantly improve your employment prospects compared to holding only a basic qualification. Additionally, consider boosting your confidence by enrolling in public speaking courses, such as those offered by Toastmasters International.
For government job opportunities, please check: www.employment-newspaper.com
page updated: August 2024