SOFIA is an airborne infrared telescope, with a 2.5-meter mirror, housed in a 'retired' Boeing 747-200 (the older short body version) named 'Clipper Lindbergh'. The telescope is stabilized by huge gyroscopes, and rests in a spherical 'oil bath' bearing. The stabilization is capable of maintaining a sharp image in 'moderate turbulence' conditions. Various instruments can be attached to the telescope to collect data in varying spectra.