Renowned paleoclimatologist Lonnie Thompson discusses his expeditions to collect ice core samples, revealing clues about human-caused climate change. The podcast explores his personal journey in climate science and his involvement in raising awareness about global warming through films. Lonnie shares his challenging journey to the Kalkaya ice cap and the personal experience of heart transplant surgery. The speaker also talks about emotional reactions to a movie, gift giving, and recommends the film 'Canary'.
Dr. Lonnie Thompson's ice core samples reveal the alarming rate at which glaciers are melting globally, emphasizing the urgent need to address climate change.
Lonnie Thompson's field expeditions involve meticulous planning and logistical challenges, ensuring the preservation of valuable ice core records that provide crucial insights into climate change.
Deep dives
Lonnie Thompson: Exploring Glaciers and Climate Change
Lonnie Thompson, a renowned scientist and climate change researcher, has dedicated his life to studying glaciers and their impact on climate. His early interest in weather and predicting patterns led him to pursue a career in climate science. Lonnie's groundbreaking work involves drilling ice cores from glaciers around the world to extract valuable data on temperature history and climate change. Despite facing limited funding and technological challenges, Lonnie pioneered the use of solar-powered drills in remote locations like the Kalkaya ice cap in Peru, achieving remarkable success. Over the years, Lonnie and his team have collected ice core samples that reveal the alarming rate at which glaciers are melting globally. Their findings underscore the urgent need to address climate change before most of the Earth's mountain glaciers vanish.
Challenges of Glacier Research and Expedition Logistics
Lonnie Thompson's field expeditions involve intricate planning and logistical challenges. To access glaciers in remote and high-altitude locations, his team relies on yaks, horses, and porters to transport heavy equipment. Once on the ice caps, Lonnie and his team navigate treacherous terrain, drilling ice cores and preserving them in specially designed insulated boxes. The cores are then transported back to freezer trucks, which are crucial for their preservation during transport to research facilities. The journey to bring ice cores from distant locations can take weeks, involving complex customs procedures and ensuring the cores remain frozen throughout the process. This meticulous process ensures the preservation of valuable ice core records that provide crucial insights into climate change.
From Heart Transplant to Future Expeditions
In addition to his groundbreaking climate research, Lonnie Thompson has faced personal health challenges. In 2012, he underwent a heart transplant after battling heart-related health issues. Determined to continue his work, Lonnie bounced back and resumed his expeditions, defying expectations. His dedication to his field and passion for climate science remain unwavering. Now at 75 years old, Lonnie is preparing for his 65th field expedition, including climbing to the Quokaya ice cap at 18,000 feet. His incredible resilience and commitment to studying glaciers and climate change serve as an inspiration to scientists and adventurers alike. Lonnie's story is beautifully captured in the film 'Canary,' which highlights his profound contributions to climate science and his journey with a transplanted heart.
Renowned paleoclimatologist Dr. Lonnie Thompson has been on over 60 expeditions to collect ice core samples from glaciers around the world. These samples hold precious clues to understand human-caused climate change.
Connect with Lonnie:
Get tickets to Canary, the documentary feature film starring Lonnie, playing in select theaters nationwide September 20th
