Space Scientist
Studies outer space — our solar system and other galaxies — by analysing data from instruments on orbiters, satellites and probes.
Overview
A Space Scientist studies the properties of outer space, including our solar system and other galaxies and solar systems, by analyzing data collected by equipment mounted on orbiters, satellites and other probes that are sent into space.
Where they work
- Public and private research organisations
- Observatories
Work environment
You have to work for at least 8 to 9 hours and for 5 to 6 days a week. Shift duties may be there. Overtime is common.
Opportunities for work exist for differently abled in this field.
Skills and interests
This career might suit you if…
- You enjoy science and maths
- You like to do experiments
- You like to build things
- You are good with computers
Eligibility and education roadmap
Please check the duration of the course during enrolment.
Route 1
- 1Complete 10+2 in the Science stream (Physics, Chemistry and Maths).
- 2Complete a Bachelor's degree (B.Sc.) in Physics/Mathematics.
Alternative route 2
- 1Complete a Bachelor's degree in science, a Master's degree (M.Sc.) and a Ph.D. in Astronomy and Astrophysics/Applied Mathematics.
Forms, exams and applications
Exam names above are as printed in the source card. Application windows, eligibility and syllabi change — always check the official notification for current dates.
Where to apply
The course is offered by the Department of Mathematics/Astrophysics. This list of institutes is indicative only. Please check if a private institute is affiliated and accredited with UGC before applying.
Government institutes
- Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru, Karnataka
- National Institute of Technology, Rourkela, Odisha
- Osmania University, Hyderabad, Telangana
- Punjabi University, Patiala, Punjab
- Indian Institute of Technology Indore, Indore, Madhya Pradesh
- Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Mumbai, Maharashtra
- St Xavier's College, Ahmedabad, Gujarat
- Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh
Private institutes
Please check if the institute is affiliated and accredited before applying.
- Loyola College, Chennai, Tamil Nadu
- Mar Ivanios College, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
- St Joseph's College, Bengaluru, Karnataka
- PSG College of Arts and Science, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu
- KJ Somaiya College of Science and Commerce, Mumbai, Maharashtra
- Dr DY Patil Arts, Commerce and Science College, Pune, Maharashtra
- St Thomas College, Thrissur, Kerala
- St Teresa's College, Ernakulam, Kerala
Distance learning
Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), New Delhi
These institute lists are indicative examples from the source card, not a ranked or complete directory. Always verify accreditation on the institute's official website.
Career outcomes
Growth path
- 1Junior Researcher
- 2Space Scientist
- 3Head of Department
Expected income
₹25,000 – ₹2,09,000 per month
The figures are indicative and subject to change. The card's source is an AmbitionBox page for scientists at the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).
SourceRelated careers to explore
Astrophysicist
Scientist who studies space, stars, planets and the universe, analysing data from satellites and telescopes.
Physicist
Studies how matter and energy interact in the physical universe, and plans and runs experiments to test theories.
Student action plan
What you can do this month
- Read this whole roadmap and note any subjects, exams or institutes you don't recognise yet.
- Talk to a teacher or school counsellor about how your current subjects connect to Science, Maths.
- Look for a school club, competition or online course related to researching.
- Shortlist 2–3 institutes from the list above and check their official website for current admission details.
- Save this career and compare it with 1–2 others you're considering.
Example from the field
Anuradha T.K. — A retired Indian scientist and project director of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), who worked on the launches of the satellites GSAT-12 and GSAT-10. The source describes her as the most senior woman scientist at ISRO, having joined the space agency in 1982, and as the first woman to become a satellite project director there. Born in Bengaluru, she graduated with a bachelor's degree in electronics from University Visvesvaraya College of Engineering, Bangalore.
SourceThis profile is shared for training/educational purposes only, as printed in the source card.
Sources and update notice
- Career card source: Exploring Career Paths with Career Cards, Volume 2, printed page 851 (NCERT / UNICEF India / PSSCIVE Bhopal, First Edition, April 2025).
- Income source: https://www.ambitionbox.com/salaries/indian-space-research-organisation-salaries/scientist
- Last reviewed on this site: 2026-08-21
This card is printed on page 851; the contents list gives 852. St Xavier's College, Ahmedabad, listed under government institutes, is a privately managed college, and PSG College of Arts and Science, Coimbatore is in Tamil Nadu (printed as Odisha). The Nanoscientist card reprints most of this card's panels.
Eligibility, fees, exam patterns and admissions change often. Always verify current details on official institute, exam-body or government websites before making decisions.