How to become astronomerseducation, training, experience and the steps to enter
Median annual pay
$128,820
25th–75th pct. $99,920–$166,000
Top pay (est.)
$253,700
Top 10% $195,190
Pay in 5 years
$146,000est.
2031
Pay in 10 years
$165,400est.
$142,200–$192,000
Outlook score
58/100
★★★☆☆ Average
AI replacement risk
72%
High
Job growth (10 yr)
+7.8%
100 openings / yr
How to become astronomers
Typical education
Doctoral or professional degree
BLS
Related experience
None
On-the-job training
None
A step-by-step guide for this occupation is being prepared. The education, training and experience data above show the typical path.
Skills, education and requirements for Astronomers
Key skills
O*NET skill level ratings (0–7).
Key knowledge areas
What the work involves
Processing InformationAnalyzing Data or InformationUpdating and Using Relevant KnowledgeGetting InformationThinking CreativelyMaking Decisions and Solving ProblemsInterpreting the Meaning of Information for OthersEstimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information
Important abilities
Oral ComprehensionOral ExpressionWritten ExpressionWritten ComprehensionInductive ReasoningMathematical Reasoning
Education of workers
Training before entry
Related work experience
Job Zone 5 — extensive preparation needed (O*NET)
Difficulty of entry: ★★★★☆ Demanding (from education, training, experience and Job Zone)
Career path and how to earn more as astronomers
Career-path guidance is being prepared. Pay by percentile is shown in the Pay section.
Pay and employment figures are national statistics. Projected pay, outlook scores and AI replacement risk are estimates from the Shigoto Zukan model, not guarantees. To request a correction, use the contact form. How to read the data
Sources: BLS OEWS May 2025; BLS Employment Projections 2025–35; O*NET 31.0 Database by USDOL/ETA (CC BY 4.0), modified by Shigoto Zukan. Pay ranges, projections and scores are Shigoto Zukan estimates.