The Finnish Science Centre Heureka is one of the best science centers in the world, according to an assessment by the Association of Science-Technology Centers (ASTC). Founded in 1973, ASTC represents the science center and museum worldwide and has nearly 600 members in over 40 countries.
Located in Vantaa, a 20-minute train ride from Helsinki, Heureka is especially praised by ASTC for the high quality of its exhibits and positive visitor experiences. Since its opening, more than 23 million people have visited Heurekas own and travelling exhibitions.
International impact
The city of Vantaa has every reason to be proud of its decision to host the Heureka Science Centre 26 years ago. Heureka brings in more revenue annually than what the city of Vantaa provides it in financial support, says Asger Heg, Executive Director of Denmarks Experimentarium Science Centre, in the assessment report.
ASTC also highlights the participation of numerous Heureka employees in the international development of science centre activities. For example, the first annual Science Center World Congress was held in Vantaa in 1996. Per-Edvin Persson, Heurekas current Director, is the former chairman of the boards of the Association of Science-Technology Centers, the European Network of Science Centres and Museums, and the Nordic Science Center Association.
