american geosciences institute
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Atmospheric and Space Scientists

Credit: NASA Johnson, CC BY-NC 2.0 on Flickr

Atmospheric and space scientists study the Earth’s atmosphere, climate, and space environment. They may work in laboratories or in the field to collect data and analyze it using computer models. Their work requires an extensive background in the geosciences and often involves:

  • Interpreting and informing the public on weather patterns, climate change, and the effects of human activity on the environment.

  • Studying the Earth’s atmosphere and its interaction with other systems, such as the oceans and the climate. They may investigate topics such as air pollution, atmospheric chemistry, and the effects of solar radiation on the atmosphere.

  • Working with instruments on satellites or in space to collect data on solar activity, cosmic rays, Earth’s magnetic field, and other phenomena related to the interaction between space and the atmosphere.

Read more about this occupation on O*NET OnLine at www.onetonline.org/link/summary/19-2021.00

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