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Overview

SOFIA was designed from the ground up with the capability to allow visiting educators and journalists to closely observe and even participate in the research process. This ability to allow non-research visitors to get close to the workings of the observatory, to observe first-hand how scientists really think, work, interact and use technology is a key feature of SOFIA.

With this unique educational capability integrated into an observatory which is already science-rich and technologically intensive, SOFIA offers great opportunities to enhance scientific literacy both for the general public and for pre-college, undergraduate, and graduate education. SOFIA's Education and Public Outreach (E/PO) program will bring the excitement, hardships, challenges, discoveries, teamwork and educational values of SOFIA to students, teachers, and the general public on a national and even international scale.

SOFIA will promote excellence in science, mathematics, and technology education through direct involvement of non-scientists in partnerships, workshops, internships, and as participants/observers on research flights.

The SOFIA E/PO Program is a partnership with The SETI Institute and the Astronomical Society of the Pacific, both non-profit organizations with experience in developing and managing complex educational programs for astronomers, students and the public.