the roots of the finnish science centre heureka can be traced back to the university of helsinki and scientists, who had become acquainted with different science centres located around the world. the initial spark was lit by adjunct professors tapio markkanen, hannu i. miettinen and heikki oja. it all began with the physics 82 exhibition held at the house of the estates in helsinki on 20–26 may 1982. during autumn of that same year, the science centre project was launched with the initial support of the academy of finland, the ministry of education, and various foundations. the project led to the establishment of the finnish science centre foundation during 1983-1984. the original founding members of the foundation included the university of helsinki, the helsinki university of technology, the federation of finnish learned societies, and the confederation of industries.