Hi Alexis,

The salaries that space scientists earn vary depending on how many years of experience beyond school you have. Salaries also depend somewhat on where you live, since it costs more to live in someplace like Los Angeles than it does to live in the Midwest. Most scientists work for employers who also provide benefits like health insurance and a retirement or investment plan. I don't have to pay very much when I go to the doctor because my insurance covers the bills. I am not rich, but I make enough money to live comfortably. I own a car and a condominium and bought some really nice furniture and a new computer a few months ago. I can afford to take a trip someplace just for fun or go on a wild shopping spree once in a while.

In many professions, men still do make more money than women, and this is a very touchy subject. I am paid similarly to other people at my university, but this may not be the case at other institutions. There could be women in my field who are paid less than men doing similar jobs, but I haven't seen any statistics about this. Being a scientist is a lot like any other job - you need to look out for yourself, and be aware of how your salary and benefits compare to those of other people doing similar jobs. If you do this, then you can protect yourself from being underpaid because of your race or gender.

Kris