Two Teachers Part Of STS-119 Crew

"I touch the future; I teach" are the inspiring words often quoted by the woman who was to be the United States' first Teacher-in-Space, Christa McAuliffe. Challenger Center for Space Science Education is thrilled to see Christa's dreams fulfilled by former science and math teachers Joe Acaba and Ricky Arnold, who are now officially "Educator Astronauts" in orbit around the Earth onboard to the International Space Station.

The primary objective of the 28th mission to the International Space Station is to deliver the final set of solar array wings and truss elements that are needed to complete the station's electricity generating systems. Teacher-turned-astronaut Acaba will conduct two spacewalks helping with the installation of the space station components. Teacher-turned-astronaut Arnold will help to install equipment provided by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency.

"Space is a great hook for educators around the globe to engage students in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics curriculum. That's what happens every day at Challenger Learning Centers!" said Dr. June Scobee Rodgers, Founding Chairman of Challenger Center for Space Science Education.

"The Space program helps to invigorate science education by combining hands on learning with the thrill of exploration and discovery. Teachers have the innate ability to breakdown these complex subjects and present them in an understandable and inspiring way," added Challenger Center President Daniel Barstow. "Educator Astronauts Acaba and Arnold's mission follows in the footsteps of Barbara Morgan's successes on STS118 and serves as a reminder of the awesome role that educators play in our lives."

In the 23 years since its founding this program has grown to a network of over 50 Challenger Learning Centers that has collectively engaged and inspired over 8 million students, taking them on simulated space missions to Earth orbit, the Moon, Mars and beyond.

FMI: www.challenger.org