SOFIA in its original gold scheme
The SOFIA airborne observatory in flight, in NASA and DLR markings.
SOFIA in flight, in an early scheme with NASA and DLR markings on the tail.
The airframe is a 747SP - short, light, and able to hold high altitude for long periods, which is exactly what an airborne observatory needs. More on SOFIA.
SOFIA in its original gold scheme, carrying NASA and DLR markings - the observatory was a joint US and German programme.Image courtesy of NASA
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