Born June, 19, 1952, Imatra
Master of Arts 1988 (art history), University of Helsinki
Museum director 2009–, Helsinki University Museum
Head of research 1999–2009, Espoo City Museum
Earlier a cultural environment researcher for various institutions
A wife, a daughter, a Finnish Lapphund and a house
Photo: Timo Huvilinna
Written by Sten Björkman (Riitta-Ilona Hurmerinta, ed.)
Translated by Matthew Billington
My first development project as director of the Helsinki University Museum was the three-year planning and realisation of the Helsinki Observatory, University Museum’s Centre for Astronomy. The renovated observatory opened to the public in September 2012. It is situated on Tähtitorni hill in the observatory building, completed in 1834, which was designed by the German architect Carl Ludvig Engel.
The Centre for Astronomy, which is particularly aimed at school children, combines the elements of a science centre and science museum. The goal is to provide insights, through experience, into the cosmos and its study. Through astronomy, the door is opened to understanding all the sciences.
The Helsinki Observatory collaborates with the Ursa Astronomical Association, the discipline of astronomy at the University of Helsinki and the Luma Centre, as well as with the City of Helsinki. In addition to the Centre for Astronomy, the observatory building also houses the University of Helsinki Almanac Office, Café Tiedekahvila and the offices of Ursa.
Born June, 19, 1952, Imatra
Master of Arts 1988 (art history), University of Helsinki
Museum director 2009–, Helsinki University Museum
Head of research 1999–2009, Espoo City Museum
Earlier a cultural environment researcher for various institutions
A wife, a daughter, a Finnish Lapphund and a house
Photo: Timo Huvilinna
Written by Sten Björkman (Riitta-Ilona Hurmerinta, ed.)
Translated by Matthew Billington
