Astronomy course – Career in Astrophysics

Introduction to Astrophysics:
Astrophysics is an allied field of astronomy and concerns itself with the physics of the universe. The science deals with physical properties such as density, temperature, chemical composition and luminosity of stars, planets, galaxies and the interstellar medium of their interaction.

Eligibility:
The eligibility for the course is BSc in physics or mathematics after 10+2/BE in electrical or electronics or electrical communications.

Aptitude:
· Good background in Astronomy and physics, mathematics and chemistry.
· Excellent skills in computers and art also required.

Career Options:
There are several institutions where astronomers are employed.
With a Bachelor’s degree one can get an entry-level research position in, for e.g.
1. An aerospace company
2. Satellite manufacturer
3. National laboratory or at a
4. Museum or
5. Science centre

Remuneration:
· Junior researcher: Rs.12000/ pm
· Senior researcher: Rs.14000/pm
· Post Doctoral fellow: Rs.18000/pm
· Hostel accommodation, House rent, Medical and Travel allowances are other benefits available to researchers.

Courses:
· In Astronomy, there are various courses available at the Master’s level and at the PhD level. Undergraduate courses are not available in any university in India.
· One can join 1year Joint Astronomy Programme or can also complete their PhD at any Institutes after completion of this course.
· Students are inducted into PhD programmes under a 2year junior fellowship and are later offered a senior research fellowship.

Institutes/ Colleges/ Academy:
The Institutes/colleges offering this course are listed below:
1. Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) (http://www.iiap.res.in)/
2. Inter-University centre for Astronomy (IUCCA), Pune (http://www.iucaa.ernet.in/)
3. Raman Research Institute, Bangalore (http://www.rri.res.in/)
4. Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Mumbai (http://www.tifr.res.in/)
5. Osmania University, Hyderabad (http://www.osmania.ac.in/)
6. Radio Astronomy Centre, Ootacamund, Tamil Nadu