The SOFIA telescope
This flying eye in the sky probes the secrets of the universe
The Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy (SOFIA) consists of a Boeing 747SP wide-body aircraft modified to carry a telescope. Its infrared 2.5-metre reflecting telescope detects energy emitted by astronomical objects that are invisible to the human eye.
SOFIA’s telescope
Pan American World Airways originally operated the Boeing ‘jumbo jet’ 747SP used in the project. The SP - or special performance - designation means that it has a shorter body and can travel further than the original 747 aircraft. NASA bought it in 1997.