3 answers
Nicole
Student
Lansing, Michigan
1
Question
Updated
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What jobs would be recommended for someone wanting to pursue Astrogeology, but is worried about long-term job security?
My dream has always been to do some kind of Astrogeology and study incoming samples from space. Seeing as we are in uncertain times for space research, are there any jobs outside of working for Musk that anyone would recommend that seem to have a secure place in the industry? I want to change my major and follow my passion but I worry I will be unable to find a job after graduating. Thank you #Spring25
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3 answers
Chrisanne M
engineer
10
Answers
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Updated
Chrisanne’s Answer
Hi Nicole,
It's wonderful to see your interest in astrogeology. This field is exciting and full of amazing discoveries about the universe. It's smart to think about other career paths, and considering an engineering degree with a minor in geology or astrogeology could be a great choice. Engineering skills are in high demand, and they teach you valuable problem-solving techniques that many companies look for.
A degree in mechanical or aerospace engineering could open doors to work with companies like Boeing or Lockheed Martin. These companies, along with others, have contracts with NASA and global agencies, giving you a chance to get involved in space research projects that interest you.
While NASA is a leader in astrogeology, there are other important agencies like the USGS Astrogeology Science Center, the European Space Agency, and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency. These organizations are significant in the field and are less affected by U.S. politics. Many universities also conduct research in this area.
An engineering degree with a minor will also give you flexibility in your career. You'll be able to adapt to different roles and industries, as employers value engineers for their ability to solve problems and stay committed to finding solutions.
Good luck! Your passion for science promises a bright future.
It's wonderful to see your interest in astrogeology. This field is exciting and full of amazing discoveries about the universe. It's smart to think about other career paths, and considering an engineering degree with a minor in geology or astrogeology could be a great choice. Engineering skills are in high demand, and they teach you valuable problem-solving techniques that many companies look for.
A degree in mechanical or aerospace engineering could open doors to work with companies like Boeing or Lockheed Martin. These companies, along with others, have contracts with NASA and global agencies, giving you a chance to get involved in space research projects that interest you.
While NASA is a leader in astrogeology, there are other important agencies like the USGS Astrogeology Science Center, the European Space Agency, and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency. These organizations are significant in the field and are less affected by U.S. politics. Many universities also conduct research in this area.
An engineering degree with a minor will also give you flexibility in your career. You'll be able to adapt to different roles and industries, as employers value engineers for their ability to solve problems and stay committed to finding solutions.
Good luck! Your passion for science promises a bright future.
Karin P.
Lecturer, Academic Advisor, Career Coach
1093
Answers
Göttingen, Lower Saxony, Germany
Updated
Karin’s Answer
Hi Nicole,
I would not recommend majoring in astrogeology as an undergraduate. You can major in geology and have a broad basis in the geological sciences no matter where it takes you. You'll learn about geological processes, the physical and chemical foundations of crystallization, rock formation, weathering and soil formation as well as the analytical techniques used to study rocks.
You can take courses in astronomy, astrophysics or space science as your electives and you'll be set for success.
Astrogeology would be a specialization within geology. You can do your masters and/or PhD in astrogeology if you want to go that way. The skills you acquire would serve you well even if you don't end up with a job in spacegeology.
To work at NASA is of course a dream, and you should try to get an internship at NASA to put you on the path to investigate space materials.
Space rocks or simulated materials are not only investigated at NASA labs. NASA funds research programs and collaborations in science and engineering at many universities, and if you have a good project idea, you can request original materials.
There are also private companies interested in mining resources. You find a couple of them here:
https://flypix.ai/blog/private-space-companies/
I don't think anyone can answer right now how far the current administration will go in dismantling science and research in the US. Of course, most of their current actions are illegal and will make their way through the courts. Who knows if NASA will survive. But for you, this is a couple of years away. You have anywhere from 5 to 10 years of education in front of you. And you'd have a solid foundation in geology to find employment either in academia or in the private industry.
I hope this helps. All the best to you!
KP
https://community.geosociety.org/pgd/resources/university-programs
https://www.usgs.gov/centers/astrogeology-science-center/science/education
https://www.nasa.gov/learning-resources/internship-programs/
https://clever.research.gatech.edu/
https://space.mines.edu/projects/
I would not recommend majoring in astrogeology as an undergraduate. You can major in geology and have a broad basis in the geological sciences no matter where it takes you. You'll learn about geological processes, the physical and chemical foundations of crystallization, rock formation, weathering and soil formation as well as the analytical techniques used to study rocks.
You can take courses in astronomy, astrophysics or space science as your electives and you'll be set for success.
Astrogeology would be a specialization within geology. You can do your masters and/or PhD in astrogeology if you want to go that way. The skills you acquire would serve you well even if you don't end up with a job in spacegeology.
To work at NASA is of course a dream, and you should try to get an internship at NASA to put you on the path to investigate space materials.
Space rocks or simulated materials are not only investigated at NASA labs. NASA funds research programs and collaborations in science and engineering at many universities, and if you have a good project idea, you can request original materials.
There are also private companies interested in mining resources. You find a couple of them here:
https://flypix.ai/blog/private-space-companies/
I don't think anyone can answer right now how far the current administration will go in dismantling science and research in the US. Of course, most of their current actions are illegal and will make their way through the courts. Who knows if NASA will survive. But for you, this is a couple of years away. You have anywhere from 5 to 10 years of education in front of you. And you'd have a solid foundation in geology to find employment either in academia or in the private industry.
I hope this helps. All the best to you!
KP
Karin recommends the following next steps:
Amelia Mindich
Product Specialist
1
Answer
Rochester, New York
Updated
Amelia’s Answer
Take some business classes! I have a background in Geology and am now a Product Specialist at a Science Education company, so I work with telescope manufacturers and teachers who use them in their classrooms. Even having some marketing classes under your belt may turn into a unique way to apply Astronomy knowledge.
Its not quite the same as practicing science, but there is decent job security and I have great work life balance. Taking business classes (even just one or two introductory courses) will help with whatever career you pursue and open doors on how you can apply Astronomy expertise in ways you might not think of.
Its not quite the same as practicing science, but there is decent job security and I have great work life balance. Taking business classes (even just one or two introductory courses) will help with whatever career you pursue and open doors on how you can apply Astronomy expertise in ways you might not think of.