____ Investigative Occupations: Atmospheric and Space Scientists
problems. Study celestial phenomena, using a vari-
ety of ground-based and space-borne telescopes and
scientifi c instruments. Analyze research data to
determine its signifi cance, using computers. Pres-
ent research fi ndings at scientifi c conferences and in
papers written for scientifi c journals. Measure radio,
infrared, gamma, and X-ray emissions from extrater-
restrial sources. Develop theories based on personal
observations or on observations and theories of other
astronomers. Raise funds for scientifi c research. Col-
laborate with other astronomers to carry out research
projects. Develop instrumentation and software for
astronomical observation and analysis. Teach astron-
omy or astrophysics. Develop and modify astronomy-
related programs for public presentation. Calculate
orbits and determine sizes, shapes, brightness, and
motions of diff erent celestial bodies. Direct the oper-
ations of a planetarium.
GOE—Interest Area/Cluster: 15. S c i e nt i fi c
Research, Engineering, and Mathematics. Work
Group: 15. 0 2. Phy s i c a l S c i e n c e s. Other Jobs in
! is Work Group: Atmospheric and Space Scien-
tists; Chemists; Geographers; Geoscientists, Except
Hydrologists and Geographers; Hydrologists; Mate-
rials Scientists; Physicists.
Skills: Science; Programming; Mathematics;
Complex Problem Solving; Technology Design;
Active Learning; Critical # inking; Reading
Comprehension.
Education and Training Programs: Astron-
omy; Astrophysics; Planetary Astronomy and Sci-
ence; Astronomy and Astrophysics, Other. Related
Knowledge/Courses: Physics; Mathematics; Engi-
neering and Technology; Chemistry; Computers and
Electronics; Education and Training.
Work Environment: Indoors; sitting.
Atmospheric and Space Scientists....................................
! Personality Code: IR
! Education/Training Required: Bachelor’s
degree
! Annual Earnings: $78,390
! Beginning Wage: $37,030
! Earnings Growth Potential: Very high
! Growth: 10.6%
! Annual Job Openings: 735
! Self-Employed: 0.0%
! Part-Time: 5.2%Investigate atmospheric phenomena and interpret
meteorological data gathered by surface and air
stations, satellites, and radar to prepare reports
and forecasts for public and other uses. Study and
interpret data, reports, maps, photographs, and charts
to predict long- and short-range weather conditions,
using computer models and knowledge of climate
theory, physics, and mathematics. Broadcast weather
conditions, forecasts, and severe weather warnings to
the public via television, radio, and the Internet or
provide this information to the news media. Gather
data from sources such as surface and upper air sta-
tions, satellites, weather bureaus, and radar for use in
meteorological reports and forecasts. Prepare forecasts
and briefi ngs to meet the needs of industry, business,
government, and other groups. Apply meteorologi-
cal knowledge to problems in areas including agricul-
ture, pollution control, and water management and
to issues such as global warming or ozone depletion.
Conduct basic or applied meteorological research
into the processes and determinants of atmospheric
phenomena, weather, and climate. Operate com-
puter graphic equipment to produce weather reports
and maps for analysis, distribution, or use in weather
broadcasts. Measure wind, temperature, and humid-
ity in the upper atmosphere, using weather balloons.
Develop and use weather forecasting tools such as
mathematical and computer models. Direct forecast-
ing services at weather stations or at radio or tele-
vision broadcasting facilities. Research and analyze
the impact of industrial projects and pollution onInvestigative–
A