Morgan's long road to space

0 Comments | USA TODAY, August, 2007

Aug. 27, 1984 -- President Reagan announces the teacher-in-space program.

July 19, 1985 -- From a field of nearly 11,000 applicants, 114 semifinalists and 10 finalists, Christa McAuliffe, 36, is chosen to be the first teacher in space. Barbara Morgan, 33, is picked as her backup.

Jan. 28, 1986 -- Morgan watches from Cape Canaveral as space shuttle Challenger lifts off, carrying McAuliffe and six fellow crewmembers. Challenger explodes about a minute into the mission.

Feb. 13, 1986 -- Morgan acceptsNASA's offer to be the next teacher in space, although the agency does not specify a flight date.

March-July 1986 -- Morgan works for NASA, speaking to education groups across the USA.

September 1986 -- Morgan returns to her home in...