Airborne observatory

As Airborne Astronomy (german airborne astronomy), astronomical projects refer to operations where telescopes and other measuring devices are installed in aircraft and operated at high altitudes as observation platforms.

History and Projects

Since the 1920s, research balloons and airplanes are used to perform astronomical observation missions. Different types of aircraft were used, inter alia, a flying boat Felixstowe F5L. For modern air-supported programs were, inter alia, Learjet 24, Lockheed C -141, McDonnell Douglas F/A-18 and Boeing 747 adapted.

Some programs, such as the Lear Jet Observatory Kuiper Airborne Observatory and have been successfully completed. A current program is the Stratospheric Observatory For Infrared Astronomy, in which an infrared telescope in a Boeing 747 SP has been integrated. Observation flights at altitudes of 12-14 km can be performed with it.