6 answers
Sam
Student
Elk River, Minnesota
2
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Asked
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How do I get started with getting into Astronomy or Programming?
What should I do to get started on learning about Programming or Astronomy? what schools should I look into? what should I do beforehand to set me up for success?
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6 answers
Dr H
Dr. H's Research
1464
Answers
Australia
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Hey Sam,
Alright so, Astronomy and programming are two incredible worlds that can light up your curiosity in totally different but connected ways. The best part? You don't have to choose between them — you can blend both into a powerful combo that unlocks the secrets of the universe.
For astronomy, start by diving into books like Cosmos by Carl Sagan or watching documentaries like The Universe. Apps like Stellarium can help you explore the night sky from your phone or computer. Join local astronomy clubs, attend star-gazing events, or even try your hand at astrophotography. High school physics and math classes will give you a solid foundation, especially if you're eyeing a future in space science.
Programming is like giving your brain a superpower. Start with beginner-friendly languages like Python — it's used a lot in astronomy for data analysis. Platforms like Codecademy, freeCodeCamp, or Khan Academy can help you get hands-on experience. Building small projects, like a program that tracks planets or simulates gravity, will give you a taste of how programming can help you explore the universe in new ways.
If you're thinking long-term, universities like MIT, Caltech, or the University of Arizona are great for both astronomy and computer science. But you can also learn a ton through online courses and open-source projects. The key is to stay curious, keep exploring, and connect with others who share your passion.
Astronomy teaches you to ask big questions, and programming gives you the tools to find answers. Keep following those stars — who knows, you might code your way to the next big discovery!
Alright so, Astronomy and programming are two incredible worlds that can light up your curiosity in totally different but connected ways. The best part? You don't have to choose between them — you can blend both into a powerful combo that unlocks the secrets of the universe.
For astronomy, start by diving into books like Cosmos by Carl Sagan or watching documentaries like The Universe. Apps like Stellarium can help you explore the night sky from your phone or computer. Join local astronomy clubs, attend star-gazing events, or even try your hand at astrophotography. High school physics and math classes will give you a solid foundation, especially if you're eyeing a future in space science.
Programming is like giving your brain a superpower. Start with beginner-friendly languages like Python — it's used a lot in astronomy for data analysis. Platforms like Codecademy, freeCodeCamp, or Khan Academy can help you get hands-on experience. Building small projects, like a program that tracks planets or simulates gravity, will give you a taste of how programming can help you explore the universe in new ways.
If you're thinking long-term, universities like MIT, Caltech, or the University of Arizona are great for both astronomy and computer science. But you can also learn a ton through online courses and open-source projects. The key is to stay curious, keep exploring, and connect with others who share your passion.
Astronomy teaches you to ask big questions, and programming gives you the tools to find answers. Keep following those stars — who knows, you might code your way to the next big discovery!
Sam I had like to mention that, Programming and astronomy together is 1000% a real field — it's called Computational Astrophysics. It's where coding meets the cosmos, scientists use programming to simulate galaxies, analyze star data, and even hunt for exoplanets. And since you did mention to me you are into the theoretical physics and string theory, I think you can check this field out. And if you have any questions about it you can totally ask about.
Dr H
I suggest if you wanna blend them together which you probably would like to and if you do, just Start with small projects like coding a solar system simulator or writing a program that tracks stars in your area. You could even make a game where you explore your own procedurally generated galaxy — imagine No Man's Sky but... Sam's Sky. 😏
Dr H
Teklemuz Ayenew Tesfay
Electrical Engineer, Software Developer, and Career Mentor
520
Answers
Ethiopia
Updated
Teklemuz Ayenew’s Answer
Hello, student, I recommend following the guidelines below to get started in Astronomy and Programming.
Begin by laying a strong foundation in both fields.
For Astronomy, start with beginner-friendly books like Astrophysics for People in a Hurry by Neil deGrasse Tyson or Cosmos by Carl Sagan to grasp key concepts. Supplement your learning with resources from NASA or Space.com, and progress to advanced materials like The Astrophysical Journal. Hands-on experience is crucial—use a telescope to explore the night sky or try simulators like Stellarium. Mastering physics and math, particularly calculus and algebra, will further deepen your understanding. Join local astronomy groups or engage in citizen science projects for practical learning and community support. Stay current by attending webinars, lectures, and following discoveries from observatories. Pursuing a bachelor’s in Physics or Astronomy from renowned institutions like Caltech, MIT, or the University of Arizona is ideal, but MOOCs like Coursera’s Astronomy: Exploring Time and Space can be a great alternative.
For Programming, start by learning Python through platforms like Codecademy, freeCodeCamp, or Khan Academy. Build small projects, from to-do lists to more complex apps, and practice daily. Explore areas such as web development (HTML, CSS, JavaScript), Python, or game development (C#). Consider pursuing a CS or Software Engineering degree from institutions like Carnegie Mellon or Stanford, or affordable online options such as Georgia Tech’s MS program. Alternatively, coding bootcamps like Le Wagon or Flatiron School offer focused programs. Building a strong GitHub portfolio and obtaining certifications (e.g., AWS, Google IT Support) will strengthen your profile. Use coding platforms like LeetCode and HackerRank to sharpen your problem-solving skills and prepare for more advanced projects.
Prerequisites & Skills
In Astronomy, a background in high school physics, calculus, and chemistry is essential, with a PhD often required for advanced research roles.
In Programming, solid math and logic skills are vital. Focus on problem-solving and gain practical experience through challenges and projects.
Resources & Tools
For Astronomy, start with a basic telescope (e.g., Dobsonian) and use Stellarium to simulate the night sky. Stay updated with journals like Sky & Telescope for the latest discoveries.
For Programming, familiarize yourself with IDEs like VS Code and use Git for version control. Engage with coding communities on platforms like Stack Overflow or GitHub for support and collaboration.
Networking & Community
Join Astronomy clubs like the Astronomical League and online forums like Reddit’s r/astronomy and r/learnprogramming. Participate in star parties and hackathons to connect with like-minded individuals and gain practical experience. Contribute to open-source projects to build skills and network with professionals in both fields.
In Astronomy, pursue research or data science roles combining computational methods with astronomical research.
In Programming, explore diverse career paths in software development, AI, or space-related fields like computational astrophysics.
Set Goals & Track Progress
Set clear milestones such as building your first website or observing a specific planet. Track your progress, stay motivated through study groups, and seek mentorship. Find ways to combine programming with your astronomy projects—such as using Python to analyze star data.
Financial Planning
Leverage free resources, scholarships, and internships for hands-on experience. Part-time work can offer income while you continue learning.
Embrace Failure
In both Astronomy and Programming, failure is a natural part of growth. In programming, debugging is often 90% of the work—view each error as an opportunity to learn. In Astronomy, expect cloudy nights or telescope malfunctions; patience and persistence will strengthen your understanding. Stay calm when things don’t go as planned.
Learn in Public
Sharing your progress accelerates learning. Post about your telescope observations, write blogs, or contribute to GitHub. This will help you learn quickly through feedback and keep you engaged. For instance, you could write about your first observations or code a star-map generator.
Computational Astronomy
Combining Astronomy and Programming opens up the field of computational astronomy. Use Python to analyze NASA’s open datasets, such as Hubble images, or simulate celestial orbits. Tools like Astropy or Stellarium will help you simulate the night sky and analyze astronomical data.
Build Astronomy Tools
Create apps to predict meteor showers, track satellites, or visualize constellations. These projects will allow you to gain practical coding experience while solving real-world astronomy problems.
Stay Updated & Keep Evolving
In Astronomy, follow the latest news from NASA, ESA, and journals like Nature Astronomy. Watch livestreams of events like eclipses and rocket launches to stay excited and informed.
In Programming, subscribe to newsletters like TLDR Tech or Python Weekly and listen to podcasts like Syntax.fm. Stay on top of trends on GitHub to learn about emerging technologies like PyTorch for machine learning or Rust for performance-critical code.
Optimize Workflow
Use AI tools like GitHub Copilot to speed up coding. Automate repetitive tasks, such as renaming telescope image files or analyzing astronomical data with Python scripts. This will allow you to focus on more creative aspects of your work.
Health & Balance
Prevent burnout by following the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. Regular breaks and staying active are crucial for long study sessions. Stargazing often involves late nights, so incorporate light exercise or yoga to maintain energy levels.
Career Hacks
Freelance early by taking small gigs on platforms like Upwork or building tools for local astronomy clubs. Seek internships at observatories or tech companies like SpaceX or NASA JPL for invaluable hands-on experience. Build a portfolio with documented observations, research, or simulations for Astronomy, and showcase clean, well-documented projects on GitHub for Programming.
Long-Term Strategy
Combine Astronomy and Programming by exploring computational astrophysics, space technology, or data science for astronomy. These fields offer exciting career opportunities at the intersection of both.
Stay adaptable—both technology and science evolve rapidly. Keep learning new programming languages like Julia for scientific computing or tools like JWST data analysis software for space research.
Mental Resilience & Soft Skills
Astronomy and Programming require persistence and experimentation. Astronomy, especially, needs hands-on practice through astrophotography or telescope use. Programming thrives on consistent practice and engagement with coding communities.
Balancing theory and application will help you grow. Break down complex topics into manageable chunks and review your progress regularly. Embrace failure, teach others to reinforce your learning, and manage your time to avoid burnout.
I hope this info will help you and if you need further detail, let me know. Good luck!
Begin by laying a strong foundation in both fields.
For Astronomy, start with beginner-friendly books like Astrophysics for People in a Hurry by Neil deGrasse Tyson or Cosmos by Carl Sagan to grasp key concepts. Supplement your learning with resources from NASA or Space.com, and progress to advanced materials like The Astrophysical Journal. Hands-on experience is crucial—use a telescope to explore the night sky or try simulators like Stellarium. Mastering physics and math, particularly calculus and algebra, will further deepen your understanding. Join local astronomy groups or engage in citizen science projects for practical learning and community support. Stay current by attending webinars, lectures, and following discoveries from observatories. Pursuing a bachelor’s in Physics or Astronomy from renowned institutions like Caltech, MIT, or the University of Arizona is ideal, but MOOCs like Coursera’s Astronomy: Exploring Time and Space can be a great alternative.
For Programming, start by learning Python through platforms like Codecademy, freeCodeCamp, or Khan Academy. Build small projects, from to-do lists to more complex apps, and practice daily. Explore areas such as web development (HTML, CSS, JavaScript), Python, or game development (C#). Consider pursuing a CS or Software Engineering degree from institutions like Carnegie Mellon or Stanford, or affordable online options such as Georgia Tech’s MS program. Alternatively, coding bootcamps like Le Wagon or Flatiron School offer focused programs. Building a strong GitHub portfolio and obtaining certifications (e.g., AWS, Google IT Support) will strengthen your profile. Use coding platforms like LeetCode and HackerRank to sharpen your problem-solving skills and prepare for more advanced projects.
Prerequisites & Skills
In Astronomy, a background in high school physics, calculus, and chemistry is essential, with a PhD often required for advanced research roles.
In Programming, solid math and logic skills are vital. Focus on problem-solving and gain practical experience through challenges and projects.
Resources & Tools
For Astronomy, start with a basic telescope (e.g., Dobsonian) and use Stellarium to simulate the night sky. Stay updated with journals like Sky & Telescope for the latest discoveries.
For Programming, familiarize yourself with IDEs like VS Code and use Git for version control. Engage with coding communities on platforms like Stack Overflow or GitHub for support and collaboration.
Networking & Community
Join Astronomy clubs like the Astronomical League and online forums like Reddit’s r/astronomy and r/learnprogramming. Participate in star parties and hackathons to connect with like-minded individuals and gain practical experience. Contribute to open-source projects to build skills and network with professionals in both fields.
In Astronomy, pursue research or data science roles combining computational methods with astronomical research.
In Programming, explore diverse career paths in software development, AI, or space-related fields like computational astrophysics.
Set Goals & Track Progress
Set clear milestones such as building your first website or observing a specific planet. Track your progress, stay motivated through study groups, and seek mentorship. Find ways to combine programming with your astronomy projects—such as using Python to analyze star data.
Financial Planning
Leverage free resources, scholarships, and internships for hands-on experience. Part-time work can offer income while you continue learning.
Embrace Failure
In both Astronomy and Programming, failure is a natural part of growth. In programming, debugging is often 90% of the work—view each error as an opportunity to learn. In Astronomy, expect cloudy nights or telescope malfunctions; patience and persistence will strengthen your understanding. Stay calm when things don’t go as planned.
Learn in Public
Sharing your progress accelerates learning. Post about your telescope observations, write blogs, or contribute to GitHub. This will help you learn quickly through feedback and keep you engaged. For instance, you could write about your first observations or code a star-map generator.
Computational Astronomy
Combining Astronomy and Programming opens up the field of computational astronomy. Use Python to analyze NASA’s open datasets, such as Hubble images, or simulate celestial orbits. Tools like Astropy or Stellarium will help you simulate the night sky and analyze astronomical data.
Build Astronomy Tools
Create apps to predict meteor showers, track satellites, or visualize constellations. These projects will allow you to gain practical coding experience while solving real-world astronomy problems.
Stay Updated & Keep Evolving
In Astronomy, follow the latest news from NASA, ESA, and journals like Nature Astronomy. Watch livestreams of events like eclipses and rocket launches to stay excited and informed.
In Programming, subscribe to newsletters like TLDR Tech or Python Weekly and listen to podcasts like Syntax.fm. Stay on top of trends on GitHub to learn about emerging technologies like PyTorch for machine learning or Rust for performance-critical code.
Optimize Workflow
Use AI tools like GitHub Copilot to speed up coding. Automate repetitive tasks, such as renaming telescope image files or analyzing astronomical data with Python scripts. This will allow you to focus on more creative aspects of your work.
Health & Balance
Prevent burnout by following the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. Regular breaks and staying active are crucial for long study sessions. Stargazing often involves late nights, so incorporate light exercise or yoga to maintain energy levels.
Career Hacks
Freelance early by taking small gigs on platforms like Upwork or building tools for local astronomy clubs. Seek internships at observatories or tech companies like SpaceX or NASA JPL for invaluable hands-on experience. Build a portfolio with documented observations, research, or simulations for Astronomy, and showcase clean, well-documented projects on GitHub for Programming.
Long-Term Strategy
Combine Astronomy and Programming by exploring computational astrophysics, space technology, or data science for astronomy. These fields offer exciting career opportunities at the intersection of both.
Stay adaptable—both technology and science evolve rapidly. Keep learning new programming languages like Julia for scientific computing or tools like JWST data analysis software for space research.
Mental Resilience & Soft Skills
Astronomy and Programming require persistence and experimentation. Astronomy, especially, needs hands-on practice through astrophotography or telescope use. Programming thrives on consistent practice and engagement with coding communities.
Balancing theory and application will help you grow. Break down complex topics into manageable chunks and review your progress regularly. Embrace failure, teach others to reinforce your learning, and manage your time to avoid burnout.
I hope this info will help you and if you need further detail, let me know. Good luck!
Thank you for your help and advice, I have a few questions though; regarding Astronomy is it 100% required to take calculus in highschool? I am amazing at logic based anything so I always was good in math until I reached geometry, non linear algebra, algebra 2, and linear algebra because these math types don't rely on mental power but rely upon knowing formulas, and if you didn't pay attention to the lecture then you almost always get an F. So I am trying to avoid taking any math that I don't need to take because after I finish Algebra 2 I am not required by my school to take any other math classes. If I really need to I can try to take it junior or senior year but I don't know if I will be able to pass it.
Sam
Thank you for your help and advice, I have a few questions though; regarding Astronomy is it 100% required to take calculus in highschool? I am amazing at logic based anything so I always was good in math until I reached geometry, non linear algebra, algebra 2, and linear algebra because these math types don't rely on mental power but rely upon knowing formulas, and if you didn't pay attention to the lecture then you almost always get an F. So I am trying to avoid taking any math that I don't need to take because after I finish Algebra 2 I am not required by my school to take any other math classes. If I really need to I can try to take it junior or senior year but I don't know if I will be able to pass it.
Sam
Since you're in high school, you don't need to learn calculus for astronomy right now, and ones you finish Algebra, your school doesn`t need it either. However, if you are passionate and aiming astronomy, you have to prepare to take it in your tertiary school/higher education, as it`s crucial for the field.
Teklemuz Ayenew Tesfay
Noor ul Hassan
Lahore
1
Answer
Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan
Updated
Noor ul’s Answer
There are many programming languages you have to chose one . What i suggest is pick c++ . And then learn programming fundamentals in c++ using chatgpt. And then learn object oriented programming in c++ and then learn data structures and algorithms in c++ . Then you can say you learnt the complete language. Then start solving Easy leetcode questions. Search about leetcode from youtube . Then after this you can get job at any Faang companies
Thank you for your advice! I have experience in programming games in 3D and 2D setting but I am not very good when it comes to programming something in real life like a robot or any other things involving motors. I tend to rely upon ray-casting and variables I can control, but with programming real life objects I cant control a lot of those variables so I struggle with it.
Sam
Bright Komor
Nurse
260
Answers
Accra, Greater Accra Region, Ghana
Updated
Bright’s Answer
Astronomy and programming are fields that require curiosity and a love of learning. To get started, start by observing the night sky with binoculars and using apps like Stellarium, SkyView, or Star Walk. Learn the basics through online resources, books, online courses, and joining local astronomy clubs. Explore amateur astronomy projects and consider schools with strong physics and astronomy departments.
For programming, choose a language like Python or JavaScript and start with online resources like Codecademy, freeCodeCamp, and Khan Academy. Practice regularly, build projects, and join online communities. Explore different areas of programming, such as web development, data science, and game development, and consider schools with strong computer science departments.
To succeed in both fields, develop strong math skills, cultivate curiosity, develop problem-solving skills, learn independently, build a portfolio, and network with professionals and enthusiasts in both fields. It's possible to combine interests and explore both fields, as programming skills are valuable in astronomy for data analysis and simulations.
For programming, choose a language like Python or JavaScript and start with online resources like Codecademy, freeCodeCamp, and Khan Academy. Practice regularly, build projects, and join online communities. Explore different areas of programming, such as web development, data science, and game development, and consider schools with strong computer science departments.
To succeed in both fields, develop strong math skills, cultivate curiosity, develop problem-solving skills, learn independently, build a portfolio, and network with professionals and enthusiasts in both fields. It's possible to combine interests and explore both fields, as programming skills are valuable in astronomy for data analysis and simulations.
Heather Smith
1
Answer
Jacksonville, Florida
Updated
Heather’s Answer
Hi, Andrew!
Are you involved in a local astronomy club or organization?
If there is one near where you are, join! They would help steer you into more of a hands-on experience of using astronomy tools to integrate with programming.
Happy adventuring!
I agree with the other professionals, too. There are so many avenues that you can take with these interest. Also, astrophotography mixed with public outreach is HUGE right now. Have fun!
Are you involved in a local astronomy club or organization?
If there is one near where you are, join! They would help steer you into more of a hands-on experience of using astronomy tools to integrate with programming.
Happy adventuring!
I agree with the other professionals, too. There are so many avenues that you can take with these interest. Also, astrophotography mixed with public outreach is HUGE right now. Have fun!
Andrew Au
Professor of Mathematics & Statistics, Retired
226
Answers
Updated
Andrew’s Answer
Your interest is in STEM area. It would be a good start by taking courses in the STEM area in your school.
Take as many math classes as possible, especially AP math classes. Since you are interested in astronomy, regular physics or AP Physics classes would be helpful.
Take as many math classes as possible, especially AP math classes. Since you are interested in astronomy, regular physics or AP Physics classes would be helpful.
Thank you for your help, but oh no I am not going to have a peaceful and easy junior and senior year of highschool if I'm going to take AP or CASH math classes :(
Sam