The planned Aurora Science Center combines space research, geophysics, and sustainable mining in the Sodankylä area into an exciting experience.

Aurora Science Center

Three main themes have been planned for the Aurora Science Center, in addition to which there would be temporary exhibitions. The science center project has progressed to the planning stage in June 2025, and the goal is to open the center in 2030. According to preliminary estimates, the science center would attract around 78,000 visitors per year. The long-term goal is to reach 140,000 annual visitors.

Sodankylä Geophysics Observatory and the Finnish Meteorological Institute

Sodankylä is home to a geophysics observatory administered by the University of Oulu, where long-term measurements are taken, new measuring devices and sensors are built, infrastructure is designed and maintained, and internationally significant research is conducted. The observatory engages in extensive international cooperation and coordinates, for example, the Arctic Space Hub thematic network.

The Arctic region is becoming increasingly important in space research. The European Space Agency (ESA) and the Finnish Meteorological Institute are establishing an Arctic satellite calibration and validation center in Sodankylä. The aim is to improve the quality of satellite-based data and promote the development of new services and applications related to the Arctic region.

The center will significantly increase the international impact of Finland’s space activities and improve understanding of changes in sea ice, snow cover, and vegetation, for example. The center will create conditions for growth in Finnish space activities and industry and improve the level of scientific knowledge.