AboutEd Expertise I am not a professional astronomer by any means, but astronomy has been an interest of mine since childhood, and I am well-informed on the subject. If unable to answer someone`s question personally, I will know how to quickly find the answer online, because I keep myself informed about developments in the field and I know where to look for information.
Experience I worked in an observatory for awhile at one point, doing various interesting things with a computer.
Question I am a very good writer! And, I know of many astronomy related websites. Would an English degree be preferable? Or, would I have to get a geography degree or something of that sort? What are some of the infinite writing possibilites you speak of? Also, is there money in science writing to live comfortably? Thank you for the website and your time and patience.-------------------------
Followup To
Question -
Is it possible to go into the astronomical field for a career without a math or science degree?
Answer -
Mitchell,
Most careers in astronomy do require a lot of math and science.
However, if you're creative about it, you might be able to think of some ways to make a contribution without an actual science degree. For example, are you a good writer? Can you do online research well? There are basically INFINITE opportunities for writing about science today, on the internet. If you demonstrate that you understand a topic, and can do good online research and ask good questions, you might be able to cobble together some opportunities for yourself.
Look on astronomy blogs. Practice doing your own research. Read articles on Space.com, and constantly ask yourself "Could I have written that? How could I have done a better job than the guy who wrote the article?"
Well, you never know what opportunities can come your way online, if you are a good writer. All you need to do is ask good question,s lots of the time. You don't necessarily need to know the answers! Just asking intelligent questions is enough for writer, and being able to convey your own personal sense of wonder.
I myself have gotten several good writing jobs relating to astronomy, because of reviews that I have written on Amazon.com. If you are demonstrably intelligent, and make your presence known online, eventually people are likely to contact you. Several publishing jobs have just fallen into my lap. So, I suppose Amazon.com can be one of the "infinite possibilities" I mentioned.
As for whether there is money in science writing -- probably not. It's possible, but more likely it would have to just be a hobby. But it can still be part of your life!
If you want to be hardcore, I think you should spend lots of time looking at this website, and following as many links as you can. Maybe you could even go to one of their workshops, if there's one in your area. http://www.nasw.org/
Frankly, I am not completely sure what kind of degree would be best for you. However, the better your science background, the better off you will be.
I hope this helps get you started. Please feel free to write back if you want to bounce ideas off someone, or whatever.
