TWIN FALLS, Idaho (KMVT-TV) - Twin Falls High School Teacher, Jo Dodds, is preparing to soar to new heights as part of a NASA’s SOFIA program.

SOFIA stands for Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy.

For Dodds, the journey is a dream come true.

"I've been waiting a long time and I'm so excited," said Dodds, a science teacher.

As Dodds explains, her desire to take part in a NASA program started over a decade ago.

"It's been at least 15 years ago there was a program called Foster and that also flew teachers with Astronomers. And, just when I was about ready to apply for that program it ended," said Dodds.

Dodds is just one of nearly 30 educators nationwide who have been chosen for the SOFIA program.

"Going up on SOFIA with an Astronomy research group allows me to experience with scientists, not only the process of science, but what they're learning and how to apply that in my classroom,” said Dodds.

"It's a great opportunity because when she comes back she's going to have a lot of great experiences to share with our students and staff," said Principal Ben Allen, Twin Falls High School.

Dodds will be working with the astronomers before, during and after the flight.

NASA went to great lengths to design the special research aircraft.

"The plane is a B, Boeing 747 that they've retrofitted to be able to put this infrared telescope at the back on the side of the plane,” said Dodds.

The plane will be 41,000 to 45,000 feet in the air for approximately 10 hours.

"It's just a great opportunity, not just for me, but for everyone who's interested in Astronomy," said Dodds.

One small step for NASA, one big step for Dodds.

Dodds is set to take flight later this year.

Her exact destination is still unknown.