SOFIA

Stratospheric Observatory For Infrared Astronomy

SOFIA is an airborne observatory that will study the universe in the infrared spectrum. The high sensitivity provided by SOFIA and the spectral resolution obtained with the CTS (Chirp Transform Spectrometer) combine in a unique tool in order to address a wide range of topics of modern astrophysics, from questions about comets, planetary atmospheres and the interstellar medium in the galaxy to investigations related to the early Universe.

Science objectives

MPS contribution

GREAT-CTS

Related links

SOFIA publications by MPS members

Science objectives

SOFIA will be used to study many different kinds of astronomical objects and phenomena, but some of the most interesting are:

Star birth and death
Formation of new solar systems
Identification of complex molecules in space
Planets, comets and asteroids in our solar system
Nebulae and dust in galaxies (or, Ecosystems of galaxies)
Black holes at the center of galaxies

MPS contribution

GREAT-CTS High resolution spectrometry at 14 Km altitude