Go Back: Overview of UNITES Christa Corrigan McAuliffe was the teacher-astronaut aboard the Challenger in 1985. The Challenger mission ended in tragedy. In honor of her life and her commitment to teaching, the Christa McAuliffe Fellowship was established. Each year, one teacher per state receives this fellowship award that includes funds to cover up to 12 months of study or work.. The purpose of the fellowship is to enable and encourage outstanding teachers to continue their education or to develop educational projects and programs.