2008 and after

What's next?

Morgan's example has inspired many of her own students to become teachers. Still others find in her odyssey proof that if you pursue your dreams doggedly, they can come true.

"What an example for the nation to see this lady of passion, love for teaching. Persistence. She just won't give up," says June Scobee Rodgers.

"That's what defines teachers," says Morgan. "They have patience and they have perseverance."

Morgan is still employed fulltime at NASA. She will likely not be on another shuttle flight. Instead, she is focused on training future astronauts, educating children of all ages about spaceflight, and mentoring the three teachers who are part of NASA's new Educator Mission Specialist program. Barbara and her husband Clay have a long-term goal of returning to Idaho.

Asked whether the mission has changed her, Morgan responds, "There's a great sense of pride to be able to be involved in a human endeavor that takes us all a little bit farther. When you look down and see our Earth ... and you realize what we are trying to do as a human race, it's pretty profound."