Hilkka Rantaseppä-Helenius
Hilkka Rantaseppä-Helenius was a Finnish astronomer.
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 privilage of having an observatory at their own coral.
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 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.
