SOFIA or Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy, a scientific joint venture between NASA and the german DLR. She's been delivered to PanAm and flew as Clipper Lindbergh. Later on she was in service with United until, in 1997, she was purchased by the NASA to become the world's largest flying Observatory. In honour of the 80th anniversary of Lindbergh's cross atlantic flight, she was christened Clipper Lindbergh again by the Hand of Lindbergh's grandson Erik.
The 2.5m telescope and it's mount weigh about 17 tons and have proven to be a valuable tool for astronomists.
![[ img ]](http://orig03.deviantart.net/034d/f/2016/030/b/1/usa_747_sp_nasa_dlr_sofia_by_kimwolf12-d9putpw.png)
The car below is a Dodge Charger, a standard vehicle with the NASA, but this one is equipped with a pair of shuttle-like fins on ist booth.
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