What does an Astronomer do?

According to people in this career, the main tasks are...

TaskImportance
Analyze research data to determine its significance, using computers.
94%
Present research findings at scientific conferences and in papers written for scientific journals.
93%
Study celestial phenomena, using a variety of ground-based and space-borne telescopes and scientific instruments.
90%
Collaborate with other astronomers to carry out research projects.
87%
Mentor graduate students and junior colleagues.
87%
Supervise students' research on celestial and astronomical phenomena.
83%
Teach astronomy or astrophysics.
82%
Develop theories based on personal observations or on observations and theories of other astronomers.
81%
Measure radio, infrared, gamma, and x-ray emissions from extraterrestrial sources.
79%
Develop instrumentation and software for astronomical observation and analysis.
79%
Review scientific proposals and research papers.
76%
Raise funds for scientific research.
75%
Develop and modify astronomy-related programs for public presentation.
70%
Serve on professional panels and committees.
66%
Calculate orbits and determine sizes, shapes, brightness, and motions of different celestial bodies.
66%
Conduct question-and-answer presentations on astronomy topics with public audiences.
64%
Direct the operations of a planetarium.
50%