Claire L. Parkinson is a prominent researcher in the field of oceanography and climate science, with a particular focus on sea ice dynamics and its implications for global climate change. Over the course of her distinguished career, Parkinson has authored and co-authored an extensive array of publications, ranging from 1981 to 1988 and beyond, that delve into the intricacies of sea ice, ocean currents, and their environmental impacts. Parkinson's scholarly contributions are well-documented through her numerous research articles and studies. Her work often explores the complex interactions between sea ice and climate systems, shedding light on the changing patterns of sea ice distribution and the consequent effects on oceanography and climate. Her research is not only foundational in the field but also serves as a critical resource for understanding the nuances of climate change. Throughout her tenure, Parkinson has been actively involved with various organizations, missions, and projects, highlighting her leadership roles and achievements in science and technology. Her involvement with NASA is particularly noteworthy, where she has contributed to the advancement of space science and research. Parkinson's association with NASA and other space-related organizations underscores her commitment to exploring the broader implications of earth sciences in the context of space. In addition to her research endeavors, Parkinson's publications include collaborations with other researchers, reflecting a career marked by teamwork and interdisciplinary study. Her work is frequently cited in scientific literature, demonstrating her influence and authority in the field. Parkinson's biography is not just a testament to her individual accomplishments but also to her contributions to the collective understanding of oceanography, environmental science, and the challenges posed by climate change. 

Scope and Content Note
June 26, 2008: Dr. Parkinson's work primarily revolves around sea ice modeling and analysis, utilizing satellite data to monitor and understand the dynamics of sea ice in the Arctic and Antarctic regions. She discusses the Weddell Polynya phenomenon in the Antarctic and has conducted significant research on the contrasting trends of Arctic sea ice decline and Antarctic sea ice increase. Dr. Parkinson's career milestones include her collaboration with Senator Al Gore and her instrumental role in establishing the Sea Ice Specialists Panel. In 1993, she became the Project Scientist for the Aqua satellite, a key component of NASA's Mission to Planet Earth, which was successfully launched in 2002. The Aqua satellite has since been a critical source of data for scientific research and practical applications, with an operational expectancy until 2015. She shares her personal experiences during a NASA expedition to the North Pole in 1999, highlighting the unique challenges and cultural interactions she encountered. Furthermore, she emphasizes the importance of outreach and education, detailing her efforts in writing books and creating materials to disseminate NASA's research to the public. Lastly, Dr. Parkinson reflects on her involvement in the edited volume "Our Changing Planet: The View From Space," which showcases the breadth of satellite data and its significance in providing insights into Earth's changing environment. Her work has been pivotal in developing methodologies to transform satellite data into valuable information about Earth's climate and environmental conditions.

June 1, 2009: This oral history interview with Dr. Claire L. Parkinson provides a comprehensive overview of her contributions to the field of climate science, with a particular focus on the analysis of satellite data for studying sea ice. Dr. Parkinson elaborates on the evolution of techniques used to interpret radiation data, highlighting the role of algorithms in transforming this information into meaningful insights about sea ice conditions. She acknowledges the advancements in software tools that have not only enhanced the precision of data analysis but also refined the way results are visualized and communicated. Throughout the interview, Dr. Parkinson reflects on the growing interest in climate studies, attributing this trend to the increasing availability of data and the broader recognition of climate research as a critical area of inquiry. She discusses the influence of climate change on her work and underscores the importance of internet platforms in facilitating the exchange of information. Her collaborative efforts with other federal agencies and her dedication to outreach and education are also emphasized, as she stresses the urgency of preserving the environment and advocates for more constructive dialogue on climate change issues. Moreover, Dr. Parkinson shares her personal experiences with media interactions, her perspectives on the challenges posed by climate change, and the obstacles she has faced as a woman in the scientific community. She underscores the significance of interdisciplinary approaches within Earth sciences and calls for a reduction in plane travel to mitigate environmental impact. The interview also touches upon the politicization of climate science and its repercussions for researchers in the field.