SOFIA, the Stratospheric Observatory For Infrared Astronomy
SOFIA, the Stratospheric Observatory For Infrared Astronomy
The Stratospheric Observatory For Infrared Astronomy (SOFIA) on its maiden test flight with a completely opened telescope hatch on 18 December 2009 over the Californian Mojave Desert. The 2.7 metre telescope, built in Germany, is visible through the opening in the fuselage of this Boeing 747SP. The test flight with an open hatch enabled engineers to examine the movement of air in and around telescope and door under experimental conditions for the first time.
