The Science Team Manager is responsible for leading the science segment of the mission, including algorithm development, science data processing, archival and distribution of data and education and public outreach. I spend a lot of time managing resources to meet our mission objectives.
Image left: Shown here is Melinda Cagle, science team manager for CALIPSO.
What attracted you to the CALIPSO mission?
People generally associate NASA with missions and their discoveries. I have always wanted to be directly involved in that process. CALIPSO is an international mission that embodies NASA's goals of improving life here on Earth through scientific research. CALIPSO will be the first mission to gather statistics on the vertical distribution of aerosols and aerosol types around the globe. I find it exciting to be a part of CALIPSO.
What's your favorite part of your job?
I am really enjoying my involvement in the public outreach projects because it is so outside of my typical responsibilities. It is a totally new experience for me, and the creative process involved in developing public outreach products is very interesting.
What prior experiences helped you to prepare for your role with CALIPSO?
I have a project management background in engineering, I was also the deputy manager for the Atmospheric Sciences Data Center. I gained experience in managing project resources, as well as valuable organizational skills -- important tools for CALIPSO mission.
Tell us more about you...
I love to garden, and I try to have fresh flowers blooming all year round. I am also very involved in my daughter's activities, including her music -- the harp and oboe. My spare time in the summer is spent on the softball field, keeping score for her team as they travel around the state.
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