sofia_nz_2015flitecamLogo IR Lab

In June, 2015, FLITECAM took a
trip to the southern Hemisphere.

It was part of the New Zealand deployment of SOFIA, and used with two other instruments to image the Pluto Occultation on
June 30, 2015.

Through hard work and determination of so many, the mission was a resounding success.

These web pages document the mission photographically. But they are far from all-inclusive.

Except where noted,
All content & images
Copyright © 2015
Chris Johnson
UCLA Infrared Lab

Day Five - Installation

Sarah and Ken with FLITECAM in the lab
Ken helped get the PI Rack and the Counterweight Rack safely delivered to SOFIA in the early morning. But the dewar (the big blue tube) was still waiting to go. Sarah and Ken pose with FLITECAM.

Ken and Ryan moving FLITECAM
In order to get on the aircraft, FLITECAM needs to get onto the lifting truck. To get onto the lifting truck, it has to be lifted. Ken and Ryan push and pull FLITECAM onto the large forklift.

FLITECAM being craned onto truck
Steady as she goes. FLITECAM takes a much shorter than normal flight onto the truck.

FLITECAM in the truck FLITECAM being lifted up to SOFIA
The truck drives on the tarmac up to SOFIA, and lines up carefully with the aircraft. FLITECAM is hoisted upwards.

FLITECAM in SOFIA turning for installation
Negotiating the ramp and turn is a little tricky; Ryan and Ken carefully maneuver it around the corner.

FLITECAM being lined up with HIPO
FLITECAM is lined up by Ryan, Ted, and Ken (not pictured) for co-mounting with HIPO, the black instrument already attached to the telescope.

Ted looks on as FLITECAM is attached to HIPO
Ted eyes the contact points, and the retaining bolts are installed.

FLITECAM handling cart being removed
Now that FLITECAM is secure, its handling card is wheeled away.

Ryan and Ted doing final bolts
Ryan and Ted attach the final fixtures and bolts. FLIPO is complete!

SOFIA Telescope
The telescope assembly is an incredible piece of engineering.

FLIPO installed on SOFIA
Fully installed FLIPO.

SOFIA with Venus, Jupiter, and the Moon
SOFIA, Venus, Jupiter, & the Moon -- Beautiful end to a long day.