The Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy, or SOFIA rests in NASA Armstrong Flight Research Center hangars in Palmdale, California.
The Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy (SOFIA) is a joint German-American project to study space. With the 2.7 meter telescope integrated in a modified Boeing 747SP, astronomical observations in the infrared and submillimeter wavelength range are carried out largely above the disturbing terrestrial air envelope. The main focus of the scientific objective is to research the development of Milky Way systems as well as the formation and development of stars and solar systems from interstellar molecular and dust clouds.
X-29 technology demonstrator aircraft as it lifts off from the runway at Edwards Air Force base on a 1989 test flight.
The X-38 V-132 research vehicle was released from NASA’s B-52 over the Edwards Air Force Base range in California’s Mojave Desert.
The X-36 technology demonstrator shows off its distinctive shape as the remotely piloted aircraft flies a research mission over the Southern California desert on October 30, 1997.
NASA utilized a fleet of McDonnell Douglas F-15 Eagles.