Helsinki University Observatory

On Tähtitorninmäki Hill overlooking central Helsinki, Finland, Helsinki University Observatory has watched over the city's skyline since 1834, first as a working research observatory and today as a museum devoted to that history.

About Helsinki University Observatory

The observatory was designed by architect Carl Ludvig Engel together with professor Friedrich Wilhelm Argelander, and its instruments were transferred to Helsinki after a fire destroyed the previous observatory in Turku in 1827.

History

Founded in 1834, the observatory sits at an elevation of 28 metres above sea level and became influential enough in its design that it served as a model for other European observatories, including Pulkovo Observatory in Russia. It housed the University of Helsinki's Department of Astronomy until the end of 2009.

Telescopes & research

Since 2009, the building has operated as an astronomy-themed visitor centre and museum, telling the story of over a century and a half of astronomical research carried out on the hill.

Location & getting there

Tähtitorninmäki Hill sits right in the heart of Helsinki, close to the city's harbour and Kaivopuisto park, making the observatory an easy stop for anyone exploring the Finnish capital on foot.

Visiting Helsinki University Observatory

The site is now run as a public visitor centre; for current opening hours and programme details, it's best to check directly with the operating organisation before visiting.

See your named star from here

Few observatories anywhere have shaped European astronomy quite like this one. Standing where two centuries of stargazers have looked up is a fitting moment to check the coordinates of your own named star in our star catalogue.