On Jan. 28, 1986, the space shuttle Challenger explosed after launch, killing all seven astronauts on board.

One of those astronauts was Commander Dick Scobee, a graduate of the UA College of Engineering.

Now 25 years years later, the Challenger Center for Space Science Education (CCSSE) celebrates its use of science and math to teach students decision-making, problem-solving, teamwork and communication. The Challenger Learning Center has since grown to 48 locations across the U.S. and other nations. They serve over four million students to date.

Here to celebrate the 25th anniversary is Dr. June Scobee Rodgers, the founder of CCSSE.

Rodgers will be signing copies of her new book, Silver Linings, on Saturday, Feb. 26 from 1 to 2:30 p.m., at the UA Bookstore, 1209 E. University Blvd.

Book synopsis:

Ever seeking the silver lining amid great difficulty, June's story of faith and triumph over adversity will inspire readers of every age! Twenty-five years after the very public tragedy of the space shuttle Challenger disaster, June Scobee Rodgers has written her private story-from childhood poverty, homelessness, and family dysfunction to twenty-six years of love and life with Dick Scobee. This is the story, too, of that heartbreaking day in January 1986 when Commander Scobee and his six crewmates "slipped the surly bonds of Earth." That day, June's life took a new direction that ultimately led to the creation of the Challenger Center for Space Science Education and to new love and new life with Don Rodgers.