re: Perhaps he was in Star Trek too long
If he could have elaborated on his statement, it might have made more sense.
Ironically, his vinyard-farmer brother in the STNG series called Picard, arrogant for having chosen The Academy as a profession. Picard's nephew showed an interest in Astronomy.
Choosing an Astronomy related profession, a life's work to many, is not a sign of arrogance, it is a calling for many people and in a civilized, free society, what Stewart 'implied', is not right.