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Operates ground- or space-based telescopes; reduces and analyzes data for research projects. Common postdoc path.
$70,730
Lower reported wage
$132,170
Median
$191,880
Upper reported wage
Annual U.S. salaries. Actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience. The lower and upper figures do not represent starting and senior salaries.

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Create free account →An observatory job title does not imply every worker needs the same research degree. [1]
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U.S. career guide. Program, employer, and state requirements can differ.
Wages reconciled to BLS OEWS May 2024 for SOC 19-2011 (Astronomers): A_PCT10-A_PCT90 = $70,730-$191,880, median $132,170.
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Compare tuition after aid, required supplies and exams, travel, and any unpaid training time for the route you choose.
Planning questions: request a written estimate from each program or sponsor. A total cost has not been verified here.
A related major can be preparation; it does not by itself qualify you for the career.
Plan observations, assess data quality, and analyze telescope measurements. [1]
Observatory facilities, research centers, and remote-analysis offices. [1]
Observation work may occur at night; much analysis takes place away from the telescope. [1]
Limited observing time and instrument problems require preparation and adaptability. [1]
Experience may lead to staff-scientist, instrument, or research-program leadership. [1]
These are possible directions. Promotion timing and pay depend on the role and employer.