Space Science is the study of everything in outer space. It includes astrophysics and planetary science.
Astrophysics is related to astronomy and focuses on the physics of the universe. It involves studying the planets, stars, moons and other celestial objects in order to understand the universe and make new discoveries.
Planetary Science is the study of planetary systems across the Solar System and beyond, examining planetary magnetospheres, moon interactions, surfaces and comets.
The space industry is dominated by scientists and engineers who want to play a part in the growing space science and technology sector. On offer is a vast array of opportunities that cover many different specialist disciplines. Behind the scenes, there are also substantial numbers of managers, administrators and technical service staff.
The majority of employees working in this field have an undergraduate degree, and many have studied at postgraduate level, but not all.
Photo: ESA Astronaut Tim Peake in Cupola
| Tim Peake graduated from the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in 1992 as an officer in the Army Air Corps. He became a helicopter flying instructor in 1998 before being selected for a post with the US Army, flying Apache helicopters. In 2005 he graduated from the Empire Test Pilots School (ETPS) in the UK. He received a degree in flight dynamics and evaluation in 2006. Tim was the senior Apache test pilot and was also the Squadron Training Officer. He has logged over 3000 hours flying time on more than 30 types of helicopter and fixed wing aircraft. He was selected as an ESA astronaut in May 2009 have applied to an advert that asked 'Do you wnat to become an astronaut?'. |
There are many specialised fields in which a person who is interested in space can embark, and have an exciting and challenging career.
Typically, workers have STEM backgrounds - in Science, Technology, Engineering or Maths, or a qualification in a related area, such as law or business is also desired.
Job roles in the space industry cover a wide range of specialisations: mechanical engineers, electrical engineers, communications and systems engineers.
Mechanical and materials engineers develop the 'hardware' required for space science and exploration. This would include the equipment and technology needed. Electronic or systems engineers develop the 'software' that is essential to run this equipment and ensure that they are working correctly.
Maths is at the core of a number of these roles, especially in the analysis of the large amounts of data produced by space instruments and in calculating the orbits of space vehicles.
