Astronomy

No, a student who passes the 10th grade cannot immediately pursue an Astronomy Diploma.

Typically, one must seek advanced study in physics, mathematics, or similar subjects in order to work as an astronomer. It is advised that after passing the tenth grade, students pursue a bachelor's degree in physics, mathematics, or similar fields before studying Science in 10+2. To specialise in the field, one can then work towards a Master's and Ph.D. in Astronomy or Astrophysics.

 Furthermore, organisations such as The Open University provide certificate programmes such as the Certificate in Astronomy and Planetary Science, which can impart basic understanding in astronomy .

Yes, you can join IIST - Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology- after GATE exam. As per the IIST admission guideines it accepts exams like GATE and JEST for admission to its offered specialisations. M.Tech admission is based on the 'Admission List' which is prepared on the rank list, an available number of vacancies, and preferences given by the candidate. Selection for the rank list is done based on the valid score of the national exams followed by an online interview. Interested candidates can check below the IIST eligibility criteria for BTech:

Eligibility Criteria: Bachelor's degree with 60% aggregate for General / EWS & OBC category and 55% for SC/ST & PwD category.

Selection Criteria: GATE and JEST (for M.Tech in Earth System Science & Master of Science in Astronomy and Astrophysics)

It appears that IIST - Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology has a better placement record than Sree Chitra Thirunal College of Engineering. Here are some key points to consider:

• IIST has a dedicated Placement Cell that works closely with students to match their interests with appropriate job profiles.
• All students who have a CGPA above 7.5 are placed at IIST, and the salary package offered is 8 LPA.
• In 2022, a total of 42 students received placement opportunities at IIST, with the highest CTC of INR 11.5 LPA being offered to the students.
• IIST has a good placement record every year, with recruiters like Tata Consultancy Services, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd, Viz Experts, Analog Devices, Mercedes Benz, and others participating in the placement drive.
• On the other hand, Sree Chitra Thirunal College of Engineering has very few companies visiting for placements, and placements are provided only in ISRO for students who get a 7.5 CGPA. Even then, only the top students are selected if there are more students with a 7.5 CGPA than available vacancies.

Therefore, based on the available information, it can be concluded that IIST offers better placements than Sree Chitra Thirunal College of Engineering.

According to the search results, some of the top recruiters of IIST (Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology) are:

• Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)
• Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL)
• Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)
• Infosys
• Intel
• Adobe
• Tata Consultancy Services
• Robert Bosch
• JSW Group
• Ignitarium Technology Solutions Pvt. Ltd.
• COMSOL Multiphysics
• Analog Devices
• General Electric

These companies have participated in the IIST Thiruvananthapuram placements over the recent few years. The IIST placement brochure 2022 also lists the names of companies that visited the IIST campus. It is important to note that the list of top recruiters may vary from year to year and across different departments.