Mighty Planes Season 2 Episode 5 SOFIA 747SP

The episode "SOFIA 747SP" from season 2 of MIGHTY PLANES follows the journey of a unique aircraft with revolutionary technology on board. The episode begins with the history of SOFIA, or the Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy, a joint project between NASA and the German Aerospace Center DLR. SOFIA is a Boeing 747SP modified to carry a 2.5-meter telescope that can study the universe in infrared wavelengths.

The episode introduces the team responsible for SOFIA's flight, including the pilots and engineers. They explain the many complex systems and modifications that were made to the aircraft to make it suitable for the unique job it performs. SOFIA operates at an altitude of 39,000 to 45,000 feet, above the majority of the Earth's water vapor, which can interfere with infrared signals. To reach these heights, the aircraft requires a custom-designed hydraulic lifting system that can angle the telescope to various degrees depending on the research objective.

The episode then moves on to follow SOFIA on a mission to study the birth of stars in the Orion Nebula. The team explains the various instruments on board that collect the data, including a German-built far-infrared camera, and how they operate. The process of collecting data is complex and requires coordination between the pilots and the telescope operators. The pilots have to fly the aircraft on a precise course, while the telescope operators guide the telescope towards the target.

One of the challenges SOFIA faces is that it can only fly at night, so the missions must be planned carefully to optimize the opportunities for research. The episode shows the team preparing for the flight, including loading the large tanks of nitrogen to cool the telescope, and checking the numerous safety systems in place.

As the aircraft takes off, the crew experiences a rare occurrence: an illuminating phenomenon called a "moon halo." The team stops to appreciate the natural wonder before continuing on their mission.

Once they reach their destination, the difficult work of aligning the telescope with the target stars and collecting data begins. The team explains how the different wavelengths of light emitted by the stars reveal different information about temperature, velocity, and composition. The process of obtaining the data is lengthy and requires precision and patience.

Finally, after hours of data collection, the mission is complete, and SOFIA returns to base. The team describes the process of analyzing the data, which can take months or even years, and the significance of the research that they conducted.

Overall, "SOFIA 747SP" provides an insightful and engaging look at the technology and process behind SOFIA's unique mission. The episode highlights the dedication and expertise of the team operating the aircraft and demonstrates the importance of continued research and exploration of the universe.