Hankasalmi Observatory

Hankasalmi Observatory is a remote-controlled astronomical facility in Hankasalmi, Finland, run by amateur astronomers who contribute real research data on variable stars and comets.

About Hankasalmi Observatory

The observatory is owned and operated by the astronomy club Jyväskylän Sirius ry. Rather than requiring visitors on site, it is designed to be controlled remotely, with observations largely conducted by astronomer Arto Oksanen.

Telescopes & research

Hankasalmi Observatory's main instrument is a robotic 40-centimetre Ritchey-Chrétien telescope, supported by an all-sky camera and a 3-metre radio telescope. The facility specialises in professional-amateur research into variable stars and comets, with particular focus on cataclysmic variables and eclipsing binary star systems, and it regularly contributes to international observational campaigns. A remote stellar camera is also available for real-time observation around the clock.

Location & getting there

The observatory is located in Hankasalmi, in central Finland.

Visiting Hankasalmi Observatory

Because the observatory operates remotely and focuses on research rather than public tours, anyone interested should contact Jyväskylän Sirius ry directly for information on access or events.

See your named star from here

Once you've named a star, its coordinates can be handed to a facility like this one for a look, robotic or otherwise. Browse the catalogue to find your star.