Hilkka Rantaseppä-Helenius

Hilkka Rantaseppä-Helenius (1925–1975) was a Finnish astronomer.[1]

Hilkka Rantaseppä-Helenius
Born1925
Died7 May 1975
Paimio
NationalityFinnish
Scientific career
FieldsAstronomy

Rantaseppä-Helenius began studying mathematics in hopes of becoming a teacher. Finnish astronomer Yrjö Väisälä inspired her to become an astronomer instead. Helenius, as a daughter of a farmer, was among the lucky few astronomers that had the privilege of having an observatory at their own corral.[2]

Rantaseppä-Helenius worked on observing minor planets. She worked as an assistant at Tuorla Observatory from 1956 to 1962. In 1962 she became an observer when a vacancy became available. She remained an observer until 1975. She was also involved in building the Kevola Observatory by Tähtitieteellis-optillinen seura (Astronomy-Optical Society) on her own property in 1963.

Rantaseppä-Helenius died at age 50 in an accident. The Florian asteroid 1530 Rantaseppä was named in her memory.[1]

References
  1. Schmadel, Lutz D. (2007). "(1530) Rantaseppä". Dictionary of Minor Planet Names – (1530) Rantaseppä. Springer Berlin Heidelberg. p. 121. doi:10.1007/978-3-540-29925-7_1531. ISBN 978-3-540-00238-3.
  2. "Tiedenaisia - Vetenskapskvinnor - Women of Learning|HILKKA RANTASEPPÄ-HELENIUS". www.mv.helsinki.fi. Retrieved 2020-08-21.
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