Flying observatory SOFIA returns to Hamburg for a C-check

SOFIA (Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy), a modified Boeing 747SP, landed at Hamburg Airport on 30 September for routine check at Lufthansa Technik. The flying observatory of the US space agency NASA and the German Aerospace Center (DLR) began the equivalent to a C-check, which takes place approximately every three years. “We are looking forward to the renewed cooperation with Lufthansa Technik,” says Heinz Hammes, SOFIA Project Manager at DLR’s Space Administration branch. “The special circumstances this year require cooperation and increased flexibility from all parties involved. We are convinced that we are in the right place for the tasks