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Question
Hello,I am a student of class 11th. My subjects are Physics,chemistry and mathematics,also biology.I am interested in stuff like antimatter and black holes,etc. I want to pursue a career in which I research on such things.Please tell me what path should I take.
Hi Sid,
You are on exactly the correct path... continue taking mathematics, chemistry, and physics as those items are part of what we call
"astrophysics" which is what you'll major in at the University level.
You can eventually discontinue (drop) the biology portion of your education, as you don't want to become an astrobiologist, the only college course without a subject - (no life on other bodies that we know of, as yet). And we may not know anything about biology (life) on other bodies for another several hundred years, or more, so that course is a waste of time from an astronomy standpoint. Life on other planets is all theoretical, and just an educated guess as of now... and probably for quite some time to come. So only continue biology if you change your mind and want to become a medical doctor. Just my opinion,
Clear Skies,
Tom Whiting
Erie, PA USA
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Answers by Expert:
Tom Whiting
Expertise
Astronomy has been my hobby/pasttime for over 50 years. Currently own 3 telescopes, the largest of which is a 30 inch Newtonian truss Dob that is portable.I taught Astronomy/Meteorology at the University Level for 13 years before retiring in 1995. Being retired and home most of the time, I am able to answer all questions relatively quickly, unless it's a new moon weekend with good observing conditions. No astrology questions please, or questions about alleged UFO picture identifications.
Experience
Experience: Astronomy has been my hobby and study for over 50 years. We currently now own a 30 inch portable telescope (Updated - Pennsylvania`s largest portable telescope). It can be seen on our website at:http://www.velocity.net/~bwhiting and also attend several regional starparties during the year, and have been on 5 total solar eclipse expeditions.
Organizations: President, Erie County Mobile Observers Group for over 15 years.
Publications: Wrote the "Over Erie Skies" newspaper article in our local newspaper for 11 years (1975-86).
Education: Masters Degree- Taught at the University level for 13 years. Retired 20 years -USAF Pilot - KC-135 with 180 combat missions; Also Eagle Scout, Philmont staff 2 Yrs, Order of Arrow Lodge Chief, Ham Radio (inactive).
Awards: two discoveries: The mini-coathanger asterism in Ursa Minor (the little dipper) And the mini-ladle- another asterism in the bowl of Ursa Minor. Clients: Currently President of the ECMOG as mentioned above.
Education/Credentials
BS Metallurgical Engineering Grove City College, PAMaster's Degree, Gannon University, Erie, PA
Also retired USAF pilot, 20 years.
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