The image is a black and white photograph of an airplane taking off from an airport runway. The airplane is a Boeing 747-400, with the word "SOFIA" written on the side of the fuselage. It has two engines, one on each wing and the other on the tail. The plane is in the process of taking off, with its landing gear down and the wheels extended. In the background, there are several other airplanes and buildings, as well as mountains and a clear sky. The image appears to be taken from a low angle, looking up at the airplane.