Picture this: You’re watching a severe storm system develop on sophisticated radar equipment, analyzing complex data patterns to determine if conditions are right for a tornado to form. Lives could depend on your accurate interpretation and quick decision-making.
Think about the last time you checked a weather forecast before planning an outdoor event. Atmospheric and Space Scientists are the professionals behind these predictions, using advanced technology and scientific principles to understand and forecast atmospheric phenomena.
These scientists combine physics, chemistry, and computer science to study atmospheric conditions and their effects on Earth and space. They are crucial in helping communities prepare for weather events, supporting aviation safety, and understanding climate change impacts.
Total Employment: 9,310 (2023)
Common Names for Atmospheric and Space Scientists
- Broadcast Meteorologist
- Forecaster
- General Forecaster
- Hydrometeorological Technician (Hydrometeorological Tech)
- Meteorologist
- Ocean Monitoring and Data Assimilation Scientist
- Research Meteorologist
- Service Hydrologist
- Warning Coordination Meteorologist
- Weather Forecaster
What Atmospheric and Space Scientists Do
The core responsibilities of Atmospheric and Space Scientists include:
- Weather Analysis & Forecasting: Analyze meteorological data from multiple sources to produce weather forecasts that help organizations and communities prepare for weather conditions and potential hazards.
- Data Collection & Monitoring: Operate sophisticated weather monitoring equipment and satellites to gather atmospheric data essential for understanding weather patterns and climate trends.
- Research & Modeling: Develop and use computer models to simulate atmospheric conditions and improve prediction accuracy, enabling better long-term climate understanding and short-term weather forecasting.
- Safety Advisory: Provide critical weather-related safety recommendations to government agencies, airlines, and emergency management teams to protect lives and property during severe weather events.
- Environmental Assessment: Study atmospheric conditions and their effects on the environment to evaluate air quality, climate change impacts, and other environmental concerns that affect public health and safety.
- Scientific Reporting: Prepare detailed technical reports and presentations of findings for stakeholders, translating complex meteorological data into clear, actionable information for decision-makers.
- Instrumentation Management: Maintain and calibrate meteorological instruments and monitoring systems to ensure accurate data collection and reliable weather observations.
- Public Communication: Communicate weather information and scientific findings to the public through various media channels, helping communities understand and prepare for weather conditions.
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