The Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy program (SOFIA)
Abstract
NASA is developing a mission that would study space in the infrared spectrum. The Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy program (SOFIA) would be a joint effort between NASA and the German Space Agency (DARA). NASA is currently seeking a contractor to modify a Boeing 747 jet to carry a 108-inch optical infrared telescope designed to perform astronomical observations from an altitude of 8 to 9 miles. DARA will award the contract to build the telescope. I propose to discuss the SOFIA observatory, its development and objectives. I will also outline and discuss the benefits of the program to the scientific community.
- Publication:
-
Space Technology and Applications
- Pub Date:
- January 1997
- DOI:
- Bibcode:
- 1997AIPC..387...45B
- Keywords:
-
- 95.45.+i;
- 95.55.Fw;
- 07.87.+v;
- 98.38.-j;
- 97.10.Bt;
- 98.62.Ai;
- Observatories and site testing;
- Space-based ultraviolet optical and infrared telescopes;
- Spaceborne and space research instruments apparatus and components;
- Interstellar medium and nebulae in Milky Way;
- Star formation;
- Origin formation evolution age and star formation