Astronomy

1. To enter ISRO at entry level should have either Masters degree in sciences or B.E/B.Tech in any subjects.
2. Written test is above average tough. GATE scores will be added advantage.
3. Selected from above screening will face personal interview which is highly friendly. Emphasis will be to see strength in fundamentals of ones field and ability to connect this in solving problems.
4. A good project work related to any field useful for ISRO activities will be useful, but not essential and give confidence.
5. Prepare for questions like why are you interested in ISRO. For this your prior knowledge in ISRO activities will help.
6. All activities may not be exciting at beginning, but ones ability to do whatever assigned with commitment and being proactive technically will offer excellent opportunities. All the best, you are maker of your own destiny.

Step 1: Obtain a Bachelors degree in Science subject:
This is the first step required to get in to the field of astronomy. After higher secondary, candidate should obtain a Bachelors degree in science subjects such as physics / chemistry/ mathematics. Apart from these, some universities offer under graduation course in Astronomy.
Step 2: Obtain a post graduate degree:
Those who have completed their graduation in Science subjects such as Astronomy or Physics or Chemistry or Mathematics can look for master level courses like M.Sc Astronomy, M.Sc Astronomy and Space Physics, etc.
Step 3: Search for a career in astronomy:
After completing educational programs related to Astronomy, candidate can search for a lucrative career in the field. At entry level one can get in to the role of junior research fellow, research trainee, etc. Job positions exists in firms like NASA, Association of Bangalore Amateur Astronomers (ABAA), Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC), and Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO). Department of Science and Technology, Government of India also offer enough career openings. Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA), Technology Information, Forecasting and Assessment Council (TIFAC), etc. are some other firms offering rewarding jobs in this field.

The Indian Institute of Astrophysics is a premier institute devoted to research in astronomy, astrophysics and related physics.This is a full-time research programme where in the students work towards their Ph.D degree under the supervision of an IIA faculty. Students may join the programme in either the first semester beginning in August or the second semester beginning in January. Entrance examination is held in December followed by interview in January. Students passing the JEST exam are interviewed in May / June. Eligibility criteria for Ph.D at IIA is M.Sc in Mathematics / Applied Physics / Applied Mathematics / Optics and Photonics / Instrumentation / Electronics etc. All around excellent academic performance from 12th to PG will help you in fulfilling your dream.