Astrophysicist
Scientist who studies space, stars, planets and the universe, analysing data from satellites and telescopes.
Overview
Astrophysicists are scientists who specialize in studying space, stars, planets, and the universe. Their responsibilities include analysis of data and statistics, archiving, plotting, logging, evaluating and reporting the results of the research. They may have to coordinate data received from various satellites and telescopes, and use theoretical models to compare this data and align images.
Where they work
- Public and private research and observation centres
Work environment
It is not a desk job. You will not handle a team. Local travel is a part of this job role. Part-time work and contractual jobs may be available. Organizations usually work for 5 to 6 days a week and 8 to 9 hours every day. This may vary from organization to organization. Shift system may be available.
Opportunities for work exist for differently abled in this field.
Skills and interests
This career might suit you if…
- You enjoy science
- You would like to take up a course related to physics
- You can use a computer to solve a scientific problem
Eligibility and education roadmap
Please check the duration of the course during enrolment.
Route 1
- 1Complete 10+2 in Science (Physics, Chemistry and Maths).
- 2Complete a Bachelor's degree (B.Sc.) in Physics.
Alternative route 2
- 1Complete a Bachelor's degree followed by a Master's degree (M.Sc.) and Ph.D. in Astronomy and Astrophysics.
Forms, exams and applications
Exam names above are as printed in the source card. Application windows, eligibility and syllabi change — always check the official notification for current dates.
Where to apply
This course is offered by the Department of Physics/Astrophysics. This list of institutes is indicative only. Please check if a private institute is affiliated and accredited with UGC before applying.
Government institutes
- Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru, Karnataka
- National Institute of Technology, Rourkela, Odisha
- Osmania University, Hyderabad, Telangana
- Punjabi University, Patiala, Punjab
- Indian Institute of Technology, Indore, Madhya Pradesh
- Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Mumbai, Maharashtra
- St Xavier's College, Ahmedabad, Gujarat
- Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh
- Any recognised university in India
Private institutes
Please check if the institute is affiliated and accredited before applying.
- Loyola College, Chennai, Tamil Nadu
- Mar Ivanios College, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
- St Joseph's College, Bengaluru, Karnataka
- PSG College of Arts and Science, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu
- K J Somaiya College of Science and Commerce, Mumbai, Maharashtra
- Dr D Y Patil Arts, Commerce and Science College, Pune, Maharashtra
- St Thomas College, Thrissur, Kerala
- St Teresa's College, Ernakulam, Kerala
Distance learning
Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), New Delhi
These institute lists are indicative examples from the source card, not a ranked or complete directory. Always verify accreditation on the institute's official website.
Career outcomes
Growth path
- 1Junior Researcher
- 2Astrophysicist
- 3Head of Department
Expected income
₹1,00,000 – ₹2,00,000 per month
The figures are indicative and subject to change.
SourceRelated careers to explore
Space Scientist
Studies outer space — our solar system and other galaxies — by analysing data from instruments on orbiters, satellites and probes.
Physicist
Studies how matter and energy interact in the physical universe, and plans and runs experiments to test theories.
Student action plan
What you can do this month
- Read this whole roadmap and note any subjects, exams or institutes you don't recognise yet.
- Talk to a teacher or school counsellor about how your current subjects connect to Science, Maths.
- Look for a school club, competition or online course related to researching.
- Shortlist 2–3 institutes from the list above and check their official website for current admission details.
- Save this career and compare it with 1–2 others you're considering.
Example from the field
Annapurni Subramaniam — Described in the source as director of the Indian Institute of Astrophysics, Bangalore. She has a BSc and MSc from Calicut University and completed her PhD at IIA, Bangalore. She is known for her work on star clusters, star formation, galactic structure, stellar populations in galaxies and the Magellanic Clouds.
SourceThis profile is shared for training/educational purposes only, as printed in the source card.
Sources and update notice
- Career card source: Exploring Career Paths with Career Cards, Volume 2, printed page 795 (NCERT / UNICEF India / PSSCIVE Bhopal, First Edition, April 2025).
- Income source: https://www.salaryexpert.com/salary/job/physicist-astrophysics/india
- Last reviewed on this site: 2026-08-21
This card is printed on page 795; the contents list gives 796. St Xavier's College, Ahmedabad, listed under government institutes, is a privately managed college.
Eligibility, fees, exam patterns and admissions change often. Always verify current details on official institute, exam-body or government websites before making decisions.