Heikki Oja


Heikki Oja is a Finnish docent of astronomy, Doctor of Philosophy and the former director of the almanac office of the University of Helsinki.

Scientific career

Oja served as the director of the almanac office of the University of Helsinki from 1994 to 2012 having previously served as a representative of the almanac office since the late 1970s. He was one of the people who initiated the project for the Heureka science centre. Oja has written dozens of informative books accessible for the general public and has appeared on the radio explaining about astronomy and space research. He has been awarded the rank of professor.

Organisational activity

Heikki Oja has had a great influence in the development of the Finnish astronomy association Ursa since the 1970s. He has written or edited dozens of Ursa's books either by himself or among others. He was the editorial secretary of the Ursa publication Tähdet ja avaruus for about fifteen years.

Personal life

Heikki Oja lives in Tammela, Finland. His father was the historical researcher and professor Aulis Oja.

Awards and recognitions

  • J. V. Snellman prize 1985
  • Warelius prize of the Association of Finnish Scientific Writers 2003
  • Finnish State Prize for information publishing 2000, 2014