Which "category" of space career should i go into?

[MrElculver2424]

I have always loved space and the universe. I think that as a civilization we need to dedicate more time, funds, and efforts to exploring and studying the things beyond our own Earth.

A freshman in college, I need to soon settle on a major that I want to aim for (Bachelor's degree). Let me make it clear right off the bat that I am willing to continue on to graduate school if it will be a benefit overall to me.

To me there seem to be two different "categories" of jobs/people that all work on things concerning outer space and the universe.

There are...
1) The astronomers, astrophysicists, and physicists - they mostly study the facts of the universe, do research on the universe to make new discoveries (using math a lot in those projects), and sometimes teach these things to students (college professors). They often use telescopes and computers in daily work.

2) The astronautical engineers - they work for companies like SpaceX, Mars One, etc. to actually design, build, and run rockets, space capsules, and other space crafts. They are often directly involved with missions to the International Space Station, the Moon, and soon to be Mars.

First, correct me if I have anything wrong. Assuming I am fairly accurate there, let's continue on...

I can't decide which "category" I'd rather go into. I think the first category interests me more. But from my understanding that first category is also more difficult to get into. First, you need a PhD, which requires 7-10 years total in school. After that, the job opportunities are scarce and often only average-paying.

The second category seems much more open and easier to get into. You often only need a Bachelor's degree to become an astronautical engineer, and there are many more positions available. And the pay is often quite high.

Another thing I'd like to make clear is that I really don't have any interest in becoming a college professor (at least not in the first several years after I graduate college). I know that most astronomers/astrophysicists are professors, but I don't want to do that. I would rather work for a government agency like NASA, or for other private sector space companies working on space projects and/or missions.

So what should I do? I just can't seem to decide. Is it possible to do both within an entire lifetime? Could I start out in one category and eventually transition into the other?

Thanks for all the help in advance.

 

[TonyG]

First of all, I want to commend you for your passion and interest in space and the universe. I completely agree that we should dedicate more time, funds, and efforts to exploring and studying the things beyond our own Earth.

You have provided a great breakdown of the two main categories of jobs in the field of space exploration: astronomers/astrophysicists/physicists and astronautical engineers. Your understanding of these categories is fairly accurate, and I will try to address your concerns and questions to the best of my knowledge.

Firstly, I want to clarify that while a PhD is often required for positions in research and academia, it is not always necessary for jobs in the field of space exploration. Many companies and government agencies also hire individuals with a Master's degree or even just a Bachelor's degree, depending on the specific job requirements. So if you are interested in pursuing a career in the first category, don't let the idea of a PhD discourage you.

That being said, it is true that the job opportunities in the first category may be more limited compared to the second category. However, it is also important to consider the fact that advances in technology and space exploration are constantly creating new job opportunities in both categories. Additionally, with the growing interest and investment in space exploration, there may be more job opportunities in the first category in the future.

In terms of pay, it is true that positions in the second category may often have higher salaries. However, it is important to remember that job satisfaction and passion for your work should also be taken into consideration when making career decisions. If the first category interests you more and aligns with your career goals, it may be worth pursuing even if the pay is not as high.

It is definitely possible to switch between the two categories in your career. Many individuals start out in one category and then transition into the other later on. For example, you could start out as an astronomer/astrophysicist and then move into a position at a space company, or vice versa. It all depends on your interests, skills, and opportunities that come your way.

In the end, my advice would be to pursue the category that truly interests you and aligns with your career goals. Keep in mind that your interests and goals may change over time, and it is okay to switch between categories or even explore other related fields within the space industry. Also, don't be afraid to reach out