Space scientist as a career option -By Snehasish Ghosh

I always wanted to be a doctor since childhood. However, when I grew up, my fantasies and passion for Physics increased more vividly. I passed my HSLC examinations, took the Science stream for my HS as my aim was to be a doctor. But in those two years of HS, I became so intrigued by Physics, outer space, and cosmos that I decided to take up space scientist as an alternative career option and join ISRO, if my primary aim does not get fulfilled. I have always wanted to serve the nation by becoming a doctor and helping the needy or by contributing to the advancements of Science.

Who is a space scientist?

Space science deals with the study of the universe. There are two kinds of Space scientists:

• Physicists 
• Astronomers

Physicists focus on theoretical areas of the field and laboratory equipment. They are responsible for researching how things function in space. Whereas, astronomers study outer space i.e. stars, planets, etc. Regardless of the field an individual chooses, all roads lead to a career in space science.

I always had a fantasy of exploring outer space. My interest in it grew when I was reading the famous book ‘Wings of Fire’ by Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam. This book was a huge inspiration and urged my inner-self to develop more love for Physics and outer space. I began to research more on ISRO and what it does and how to get there.

Qualification to become a space scientist in ISRO

Students who want to become space scientists must develop an aptitude towards Physics and Mathematics. One should possess relevant education in pure science or in engineering disciplines. ISRO recruits candidates with Ph.D. in Physics, and Mathematics along with engineers in disciplines like Mechanical engineering, Computer engineering, etc. Candidates aiming for ISRO jobs should pursue their Bachelor’s degree in the above-described disciplines or related to space technology and Physics.

Institutes in India offering space science as a course

In Asia, India is one of the most dominant countries for Physics and Astronomy Education. Some institutes in India offering space science as a course are :

• Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA): It is one of the premier National Research Institutes of India situated in Bangalore. IIA conducts research mainly in the areas of Astronomy and Astrophysics. 
• Indian Institute of Science (IISc): It is considered as one of the best institutes in India for scientific research. IISc Bangalore bagged the 51st spot in QS Asia University Rankings 2017. The Physics courses offered by IISc Bangalore are Integrated Ph.D. in Physics and Ph.D. in Physics. 
• Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST): It is Asia’s first space university. It was established in 2007 at Thiruvananthapuram. The institute offers various programs in broad areas of space science and applications.
• Indian Institute of Technology (IITs): The IITs are the most prestigious institutes of the country. They provide various courses related to space science, technology and applications.

There are many other institutes in India offering quality education in space science and technology like Raman Research Institute in Bangalore, Aryabhatta Research Institute of Observational Sciences in Nainital, etc.

Achievements of ISRO 

India is making rapid progress in space science and technology. This is due to the numerous efforts of scientists working in the space organizations of India. ISRO has made the nation proud of its various achievements. Started in1969, ISRO has reached various milestones. Some of the amazing achievements of ISRO includes: 

• SATELLITE LAUNCH VEHICLE(SLV)
• CHANDRAYAN
• BACTERIA SPECIES in the Earth’s upper Stratosphere
• PSLV-C21 rocket
• Mars Orbiter Mission
• Reaching Mars
• GSLV MK3
• Launching 104 satellites together
• GSLV-F09
• Navigation with Indian Constellation

How to get ISRO jobs?

The recruitment of ISRO is conducted by a Centralised Recruitment Board. Candidates can find ISRO jobs under the ‘Careers’ tab on the ISRO official website. One should meet the eligibility criteria in order to apply for the jobs. The selection for the job is made through a written examination and an interview. ISRO also recruits candidates directly through campus placements from pioneer institutes in the country like IITs and IISc, to name a few.

Good Luck!