SOFIA's predecessor, the Kuiper Airborne Observatory (KAO), was dedicated on May 21, 1975. Carrying a 36 inch telecope, the KAO conducted airborne astronomy until 1995. The KAO succeeded NASA's Lear Jet observatory, which began flying in 1968 with a 12 inch telescope.
SOFIA’s predecessor, the Kuiper Airborne Observatory (KAO), was dedicated on May 21, 1975. Carrying a 36 inch telescope, the KAO conducted airborne astronomy until 1995. The KAO succeeded NASA’s Learjet observatory, which began flying in 1968 with a 12 inch telescope.