Institute of Seismology at the Researchers’ Night – workshops on Kumpula Campus during the day and evening program at Observatory

The Researchers’ Night takes place on Friday 27 September around Finland. During the day, the Institute of Seismology organizes workshops for children and young people on Kumpula campus and participates in the evening program at the Observatory between 5-8 pm. Welcome!
Daytime workshops for children and young people on Kumpula Campus

The workshops will give children and young people a daytime opportunity to explore the work and facilities of researchers on the four campuses of the University of Helsinki. The workshops of the Institute of Seismology are held on Kumpula Campus. 

At the workshops, you will learn about seismic instruments together with the experts from the Institute of Seismology. For example, you will see how the seismometer works and what the seismometer measures and you will get to build your own seismograph! You will also be able to test which type of structure can withstand the vibrations caused by the earthquake best. 

Morning workshops are aimed at younger children (from preschool to about 1st to 3rd graders) and afternoon program for older children (4th grade onward). Before the workshop, we divide the participants into smaller groups so that everyone can participate in the construction. The workshop lasts about 75 minutes, and there are four workshops organized during the day. 

Please register your preschool or school group for the workshop of your choice by 20.9.2024 at the latest using the form below. The workshops will be filled in registration order. 

Welcome! The workshops are free of charge.  

  • What? Build your own seismograph and jump your own earthquake 

  • Where?  Kumpula Campus, Exactum building (we will meet you at the lobby) 

  • When?  Friday 27 September at 9.00-10.15 & 10.30-11.45 (preschool/1st-3rd grade) and 12.30-13.45 & 14.00-15.15 (4th grade onward) 
Evening program at the Observatory

In the evening, anyone can attend presentations on the wonderful world of science at research stands at the Observatory and Think Corner. Institute of Seismology participates in the Researchers’ Night with a stand at the Observatory between 5-8 pm. 

2024 marks the 100th anniversary of instrumental seismology in Finland. Although natural seismicity in Finland is not a typical societal concern, measurements from seismic instruments have played key roles in identifying zones of enhanced earthquake activity, and global monitoring of nuclear tests. We welcome you to come hear about the history of seismic measurements in Finland, learn more about how we do our measurements, and find out about current and future research trends in seismology. 

All are welcome! The event at the Observatory and the exhibition at the Observatory are free and open for all, and there is no registration for them.  

  • What? Instrumental seismology turns 100 years 

  • Where?  Observatory (Kopernikuksentie 1, Helsinki)   

  • When?  Friday 27 September between 5-8 pm