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Narrator: Taking a break from its science mission flights,

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the Stratospheric Observatory For Infrared Astronomy or SOFIA

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came to NASA Ames Research Center to offer tours to employees and VIP's alike.

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The observatory consists of a 100-inch or 2.5-meter diameter telescope

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mounted inside a highly modified Boeing 747SP aircraft

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that can fly at altitudes up to 41,000 feet above sea level.

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For two days, the aircraft was opened up so that dignitaries, members of the media,

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NASA employees and the general public could take self-guided tours of the aircraft.

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To honor the occasion Mr. Roderick Bersamina, a member of US Congresswoman

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Anna Eschoo's staff, presented a flag that was flown over the U.S. Capitol

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in recognition of SOFIA to Ames Director Pete Worden and Dryden Deputy Director Pat Stoliker.

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Another VIP in attendance was German Consul-General Peter Rothen

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from the San Francisco consulate.

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In addition, a tweet-up was held as a special event for a select group of about 50 people.

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These tweeps, or people who frequently use Twitter, were given the opportunity

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to hear presentations from SOFIA researchers, tour NASA Ames facilities

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and discover the aircraft in person.

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The primary goal of the SOFIA program is to use infrared observations of the universe

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to further scientific knowledge in the field of astronomy and astrophysics.