Astronomers
SOC Code: 19-2011
Astronomers carries a 28% AI exposure score (Medium automation risk), with a median annual wage of $132,170 and +2.2% projected employment growth from 2024 to 2034 (BLS), affecting approximately 1,800 workers. Full task breakdown, skills, and employer data are below.
Proportion of tasks susceptible to AI automation (O*NET analysis)
AI Exposure vs Industry Growth
Total occupations tracked
832
Covering all SOC major groups
Data currency
2024
BLS Employment Projections
AI exposure avg
40%
Fleet-wide median across all roles
Composite score weighing O*NET task data completeness, BLS projection methodology, and cross-validation with employer risk grades.
Employment Projections
Occupation Insight
Astronomers (SOC 19-2011) carries an AI exposure score of 28%, placing it in the Medium automation-risk tier. This score is computed from O*NET Database 30.0 task-level analysis, where each task an occupation performs is evaluated against current generative AI, robotic process automation, and machine-learning capabilities. A score below 40% reflects tasks anchored in physical dexterity, unstructured environments, or high-touch human interaction that current AI cannot reliably replicate.
The economic context matters alongside the risk score. BLS counted approximately 1,800 workers in this occupation in 2024, and projects a +2.2% change through 2034 — modest growth that keeps the occupation viable even as tasks evolve. Median annual compensation stands at $132,170, reflecting both skill scarcity and the value employers place on the tasks that remain difficult to automate. Entry typically requires Doctoral or professional degree, plus None of related experience.
For career planners, this profile should be read alongside the task, skill, and knowledge breakdowns below and the list of employers whose workforce composition includes Astronomers. Adjacent occupations shown further down offer lateral moves that preserve industry knowledge while potentially reducing exposure. Pair the AI exposure score with the BLS employment projection and wage percentiles above for a complete career assessment.
Education & Entry Requirements
Top Tasks (O*NET)
- 1. Analyze research data to determine its significance, using computers.
- 2. Present research findings at scientific conferences and in papers written for scientific journals.
- 3. Study celestial phenomena, using a variety of ground-based and space-borne telescopes and scientific instruments.
- 4. Collaborate with other astronomers to carry out research projects.
- 5. Mentor graduate students and junior colleagues.
- 6. Supervise students' research on celestial and astronomical phenomena.
- 7. Teach astronomy or astrophysics.
- 8. Develop theories based on personal observations or on observations and theories of other astronomers.
- 9. Measure radio, infrared, gamma, and x-ray emissions from extraterrestrial sources.
- 10. Develop instrumentation and software for astronomical observation and analysis.
Key Skills Required
- Reading Comprehension
- Science
- Writing
- Mathematics
- Critical Thinking
- Active Listening
- Speaking
- Active Learning
- Learning Strategies
- Judgment and Decision Making
Knowledge Areas
- Physics
- Mathematics
- Computers and Electronics
- English Language
- Education and Training
- Engineering and Technology
- Chemistry
- Communications and Media
- Administration and Management
- Design
Frequently Asked Questions
Will AI replace Astronomers?
Astronomers has an AI exposure score of 28%, indicating a medium level of automation risk. The majority of tasks in this role require human judgment, creativity, or physical presence that AI cannot easily replicate.
What is the job outlook for Astronomers?
According to BLS Employment Projections 2024-2034, Astronomers is projected to grow by 2.2% over the decade. Current employment stands at approximately 1,800 workers.
What skills are needed for Astronomers?
Key skills for Astronomers include Reading Comprehension, Science, Writing, and others. Typical entry-level education is Doctoral or professional degree.
How much do Astronomers earn?
The median annual wage for Astronomers is $132,170, according to BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2024). Actual earnings vary by location, experience, industry, and employer. The BLS publishes detailed wage percentiles by region in its Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics program.
What education is required for Astronomers?
The typical entry-level education for Astronomers is Doctoral or professional degree. Employers generally expect None of related work experience. On-the-job training typically involves None. Requirements can vary by employer and specialization.
Which companies employ Astronomers?
Astronomers roles exist across many industries and employers. Workforce composition is estimated from BLS industry-occupation employment distributions matched to SEC-registered public companies.
AI Exposure Rating
Medium automation risk based on 10 analyzed tasks. Most tasks require human judgment and are resistant to automation.
Related Occupations
Career Guides
Explore More on PlainWorkforce
Data sources: Bureau of Labor Statistics Employment Projections 2024–2034 and O*NET Database 30.0. Employment figures are rounded. Wage data from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics (OES).