Helen Hall (University Space Research Association), Erick Young (USRA/ SOFIA), Hans Zinnecker (Deutsches SOFIA Institut)
Keywords: SOFIA, Infrared Astronomy
Abstract:
SOFIA, the Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy, is a joint project between NASA and DLR to provide a 2.5-m telescope that flies at stratospheric altitudes. SOFIA covers a unique niche of wavelengths from 30 300 microns not observed from the ground. SOFIA just achieved its Full Operational Capability (FOC) level 1 milestone and is successfully conducting science. This year two more Science Instruments will be commissioned, FIFI-LS integral-field far infrared spectrometer, and EXES high-resolution mid-infrared spectrometer. In this paper we present the current science highlights from Cycle 2 including targets of opportunity enabled by a moveable platform.
Date of Conference: September 9-12, 2014
Track: Poster