Hilkka Rantaseppä-Helenius

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

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

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]

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