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.
The Proteus is a unique aircraft designed as a high-altitude, long-duration telecommunications relay platform, with potential for use on atmospheric sampling and Earth monitoring science missions as well.
ER-2 tail number 709, is an Airborne Science ER-2s used as science platforms.
NASA’s DC-8 airborne science laboratory banks low over the Dryden Aircraft Operations Facility at Air Force Plant 42 in Palmdale, California.
Test pilots Bruce Peterson, Milt Thompson, Don Mallick and Chuck Yeager in the cockpit of the M2-F1.