Astronomers by field of research

Astronomers can specialize in various fields of research, each focusing on different aspects of the universe and its phenomena. Here are some common fields of research within astronomy: 1. **Observational Astronomy**: This involves collecting and analyzing data from telescopes and other instruments to study celestial objects and events. Subfields may include radio, optical, and infrared astronomy. 2. **Theoretical Astronomy**: Theoretical astronomers use mathematical models and simulations to explain astronomical phenomena and to make predictions.

Archaeoastronomers are researchers who study the astronomical knowledge and practices of ancient cultures. This field combines aspects of archaeology, astronomy, anthropology, and history to examine how past societies understood and utilized celestial phenomena. Key areas of interest for archaeoastronomers include: 1. **Alignment of Structures**: Many ancient structures, such as temples, pyramids, and stone circles, are examined for their alignments with celestial bodies like the sun, moon, and stars.

Astrobiologists are scientists who study the origin, evolution, distribution, and future of life in the universe. They explore questions about how life began on Earth, what conditions are necessary for life to exist, and whether life might exist elsewhere in the cosmos. This interdisciplinary field combines elements from various sciences, including biology, chemistry, geology, astronomy, and planetary science.

The Fellows of the Meteoritical Society is an honorific distinction awarded by the Meteoritical Society to recognize outstanding contributions to the field of meteoritics and planetary science. The society, which was founded in 1933, is dedicated to the study of meteorites, impact cratering, and related topics. Fellow membership is typically conferred upon individuals who have made significant advances in the understanding of meteoritics, whether through research, education, or service to the community.

Planetary scientists are researchers who study planets, moons, asteroids, comets, and other celestial bodies in our solar system and beyond. Their work involves understanding the formation, evolution, and current conditions of these bodies, as well as their potential for supporting life. Key areas of focus for planetary scientists include: 1. **Geology and Surface Processes**: Investigating the geological features and processes that shape planetary surfaces, including volcanism, erosion, impact cratering, and tectonics.

Radio astronomers are scientists who study celestial objects and phenomena by observing the radio waves they emit. Unlike optical astronomers, who use visible light to observe the universe, radio astronomers utilize radio telescopes to capture and analyze electromagnetic radiation at radio frequencies. This allows them to explore a wide range of astronomical subjects, including galaxies, stars, nebulae, pulsars, and cosmic microwave background radiation. Radio astronomy has contributed significantly to our understanding of the universe.

Selenography is the study of the physical features and topography of the Moon. A selenographer is someone who specializes in this field, focusing on mapping the Moon's surface, analyzing its geological features, and studying its composition and formation. The term comes from "Selene," the Greek goddess of the Moon, combined with "graphy," which means writing or drawing.