|
There are a great many astronomers, astrophysicists, and space scientists in the USA working in the aerospace industry, designing and building spacecraft, instruments, and devices for scientific, commercial and defense applications. While they are working in industry, a many of these people continue to participate in pure scientific research as well. My own fairly small company, Ball Aerospace and Technologies Corp. employs at least 20 astronomers as researchers, systems engineers, designers, and managers of aerospace projects. Their broad scientific and engineering background makes them very versatile and valuable employees. Most valuable among the skills learned in astronomical training might be the ability to analyze complex problems to facilitate their solution, the ability to understand and communicate effectively in a wide range of scientific and technical areas, and the ability to construct relevant computer models. |
