SOFIA flying observatory to undergo C-check in Hamburg

Lufthansa Technik in Hamburg has taken delivery of the SOFIA (Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy) flying observatory for a scheduled C-check. The aircraft is a heavily modified Boeing 747SP and is a joint project between the U.S. National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), and the German Aerospace Center (DLR). Coordination of the operation of SOFIA on the German side takes place as the University of Stuttgart.
The C-check, which is second to a full overhaul in level of scheduled work required to an aircraft. In this particular instance the maintenance work will be carried out in accordance with NASA regulations. To fulfil its role, SOFIA was extensively modified, including the installation of special electronic systems as well as a four by six-meter door in the fuselage for the telescope. The aircraft is subject to high loads during operation, thus the work on SOFIA’s pressure bulkhead will be especially challenging and various fixtures will have to be moved to provide access.
Referring to a previously completed C-check in 2014, Heinz-Theo Hammes, the SOFIA project manager at DLR commented that: “Then as now, Lufthansa Technik’s extensive experience with Boeing 747SP aircraft was the decisive factor. We are glad to return the aircraft to the experienced hands of Lufthansa Technik.” In Europe, Lufthansa Technik is the only company certified to carry out technical work on this type of aircraft.
Eddie Zavala, NASA’s program manager for SOFIA, added: “In 2014, we were extremely impressed with the high quality of work and expertise of the Lufthansa Technik personnel. Lufthansa Technik is the right organization to meet the special needs of the NASA/DLR partnership and provide integrated observatory maintenance on our uniquely modified and highly specialized 747SP aircraft. We look forward to continuing our teamwork with Lufthansa Technik.”