Space research in India has been growing by leaps and bounds. ISRO, India’s space research wing, works with the objective of harnessing space technology for national development. It is a pioneer agency that has already achieved many milestones.

What is space science?

Space science is a branch of physics that helps unravel the mysteries of the universe. Space research makes use of a number of disciplines like physics, mechanical engineering, materials sciences, chemistry, biology, medicine, psychology, computer science and other fields of scientific knowledge.

Astronomy is the scientific study of celestial objects, such as stars, planets, comets and galaxies. Through the use of physics, astronomy explains the evolution of the universe and through sound mathematical simulations it forecasts its development. Astrophysics deals with the physical properties of celestial bodies and with the interaction between matter and radiation in the interior of celestial bodies and in interstellar space.

Who is eligible to be a space scientist?

The ideal candidate must have a scientific bent of mind and a desire to explore. If you have the curiosity and are interested in exploration, half the battle is won – you are eligible to join. The candidates must have studied physics and mathematics at the +2 level and during graduation. Students with a post graduate degree in physics or a bachelor’s in engineering are eligible to appear for the JEST (Joint Entrance Screening Test). On the basis of JEST results, concerned institutes call a limited number of candidates for the next round of the selection procedure, depending on their requirements. All selected candidates receive a Research Fellowship from the respective institutions.

Prospects

This is not just another job. After having done a course in astronomy or astrophysics one can be a research scientist with several research institutes and government organizations. Once research is completed, employment opportunities with various institutions increase. Various government bodies and institutes also employ astronomers as scientists.