Few Jobs in Astronomy

It's a fact: The field of study with the largest subject matter of all — the universe itself — has a very small window of opportunity for those who want to do it full-time.

Many in the field point out that there are plenty of astronomy-related jobs involving data analysis, instrument-building and the like, and these positions will certainly put one into contact with astronomy all day long. No doubt they can be as fulfilling and fun as any job in the world.

And of course, the world of amateur astronomy is booming; just pick up the latest issue of Sky & Telescope magazine for evidence.

But the fact remains that for full-fledged professional astronomers, opportunities remain slim.