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Following a Career in Astronomy Later in Life

-- | February 24, 2016

Question: Since my childhood I have been fascinated by astronomy and the unknown objects lurking in the darkness of our outer Solar system. I did different things before going to college in Switzerland in my mid-twenties to study physics. But after several increasingly difficult years I dropped out. I had already written a thesis about observing asteroids and was excellent in conducting experiments, but non-applied maths and advanced theoretical lectures (statistical thermodynamics, advanced quantum theory, field theory…) were particularly hard for me. Now I have the pressure of getting a non-academic certificate to be able to work – we have the dual educational system. But I still want to go abroad one day – where a university degree is usually required, even for work where an academic degree would not be required in Switerland (but an equally qualified vocational degree being awarded by non-classical, but applied sciences universities) – and to end up being involved in Solar system research. Getting older does not facilitate this lifetime goal. But it would help to at least be able to follow a path. How could such a path look like? Thank you! — Lucius

Answer: Many people change careers mid-life to follow a passion to pursue scientific research. Ultimately it is that passion that determines the success or failure of any individual to succeed at their chosen career. My suggestion is that you look over the Careers in Astronomy section of this blog, where I have provided information and answered many questions similar to yours regarding how to pursue scientific research as a profession. Good luck!

Jeff Mangum

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