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
More in Photo Album
Photo Album
Photographs of every major Boeing 747 variant and special-mission jumbo — airline service, freight, Air Force One, the Dreamlifter and SOFIA.
Boeing 747-8 Photos
The Boeing 747-8 in pictures — wing assembly, final construction, paint hangar roll-out, first flight and airline service.
747-400 Cargo
Japan Airlines Cargo Boeing 747-400F JA401J photographed on the ramp, showing the freighter's raised flight deck and nose door.
747-400D (Japan Airlines)
A Japan Airlines Boeing 747-400D, the high-density domestic variant built without the winglets fitted to other 747-400s.
747-8 Berths
Optional crew rest berths offered on the 747-8, tucked into the upper area of the cabin for long-haul operations.
747-8-Intercontinental forward fuselage
The first forward fuselage section of the 747-8 Intercontinental, delivered to Everett for final assembly.