SOFIA: Expected Science Return from the Stratosphere

I present an overview of the expected science return from the Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy (SOFIA). As a partnership between NASA and the DLR, SOFIA consists of a 747sp and a 2.5-meter telescope with a suite of first light instrument spanning optical to submillimeter wavelengths. As a sub-orbital mission, SOFIA's science capabilities complement the capabilities of the Spitzer, Herschel, and James Web space telescopes. SOFIA is expected to begin science flights in late-2008. 427 Figure 1. The interior layout of the Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy (SOFIA).