Astronomers Discover Rewarding Job Prospects In L.A.
No other state in the nation pays astronomers higher wages than California, reports the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Their responsibilities are multi-faceted. They study new sources of energy, the nature of time and the origin of the universe. Some develop new technologies and scientific equipment. In Los Angeles, leading astronomers earn annual salaries in excess of $146,000, according to current data. Experts say astronomy continues to have a profound effect on the social sciences.
"Astronomy has been an integral component of human culture and society across the world for centuries," said Dr. Mike Shaw, a professor of physics at California Lutheran University. "Understanding astronomy gives people a sense of our place in the universe, and what all of us have in common."
What defines an accomplished astronomer?
"The most important quality of a successful astronomer is a thorough knowledge and deep understanding of the field. Astronomers must also be able to relate their understanding in a way that inspires and motivates the general public to want to learn more."
What socially relevant advancements in astronomy will be made by 2022?
"Effective astronomers will help develop and implement widespread use of augmented reality, accessible through mobile devices, to help newcomers to the field better understand what's happening in the night's sky."
How is L.A. bolstering the promotion of this natural science?
"The Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area has been a leader in creating and promoting new public and family friendly star parties, astronomy education and outreach programs, especially since 2012. To date, well over a thousand people have attended these events."
How is your university preparing aspiring astronomers?
"Our physics majors gain a deep, rigorous scientific background that enables them to become astronomers or astrophysicists. Our liberal arts curriculum also provides them with a breadth of knowledge and experience vital to critical thinking and understanding the human condition."
What is your message to striving astronomers?
"I encourage them to enroll in and excel in as many the mathematics courses as they can. Secondly, they must recognize that astronomy is a career of dedication and passion for the field, not of financial reward."
Sharon Raiford Bush is an award-winning journalist who covers topics of social interest in greater Los Angeles. Some news articles she has authored have been archived by the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, DC. Sharon also contributes to Examiner.com.
