Donald H. Lenschow

Location of Interview
Collection Name

American Meteorological Society Oral History Project

Description

The American Meteorological Society Oral History Project (AMSOHP) aims to capture the history of the atmospheric sciences as told by scientists, administrators, and others working in the field. The collection is especially rich in interviews that capture the memories of scientists who launched much of the innovative meteorological research in post-war America.

To browse this collection and others, please visit the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) Archives: https://aspace.archives.ucar.edu/

Interviewer
Date of Interview
08-28-2006
08-29-2006
08-30-2006
09-01-2006
10-25-2006
Audio
Abstract

Interview on August 28, 2006
Donald Lenschow, interviewed as part of the American Meteorological Society project, discusses his formative years, beginning with his family background in Wisconsin and Illinois. He details his early influences, particularly his father’s interest in natural sciences and engineering, which inspired Lenschow’s own pursuits. Lenschow recounts his family’s German heritage, their agricultural and educational roots, and his academic journey, ultimately leading to his studies in meteorology. The interview highlights the social and educational environment of his youth and the foundation it laid for his future career in atmospheric sciences​.

Interview on August 29, 2006
In this session, Donald Lenschow reflects on his early academic experiences at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where he began as an engineering student before gravitating towards physics-oriented electrical engineering. He describes the challenges and learning curve he encountered in math and science coursework and his developing interest in atmospheric studies. The interview also covers Lenschow’s gradual realization of the value of graduate studies, a path that would eventually lead him to his career at NCAR (National Center for Atmospheric Research).

Interview on August 30, 2006
This interview explores Donald Lenschow’s transition from graduate school to his early career in meteorology, specifically his work in aircraft-based measurements of atmospheric phenomena. Lenschow discusses his initial job expectations and his early research on atmospheric turbulence, as well as the personal milestone of meeting his wife, Jeanette, during his time in Madison. The conversation includes reflections on the evolving field of atmospheric research and his aspirations in the scientific community.​

Interview on September 1, 2006
Lenschow recounts his tenure as the acting manager and chief scientist at NCAR's Research Aviation Facility in the 1970s, a period marked by significant expansion and the introduction of major field programs, including the Global Atmospheric Research Program’s GATE project. He describes the planning and execution of research involving the Electra aircraft and the evolution of fieldwork approaches in atmospheric science. Lenschow reflects on his interactions with notable colleagues and his experiences managing large, collaborative scientific efforts at NCAR.​

Interview on October 25, 2006
Continuing a series of discussions, Lenschow delves into his body of published work, highlighting papers he authored on atmospheric pressure and chemically reactive species within boundary layer turbulence. He describes the methodologies and theoretical frameworks that shaped his research, emphasizing underexplored aspects of his findings. The interview provides insight into Lenschow’s collaboration with scientists like Dave Fitzgerald and his efforts to address complex atmospheric dynamics through innovative modeling approaches​.


Please Note: The oral histories in this collection are protected by copyright and have been created for educational, research and personal use as described by the Fair Use Doctrine in the U.S. Copyright law. Please reach out  Voices@noaa.gov to let us know how these interviews are being used in your research, project, exhibit, etc.  The Voices staff can help provide other useful resources related to your inquiry. 

The NOAA mission is to understand and predict changes in climate, weather, oceans, and coasts, to share that knowledge and information with others, and to conserve and manage coastal and marine ecosystems and resources. The Voices Oral History Archives offers public access to a wide range of accounts, including historical materials that are products of their particular times, and may contain offensive language or negative stereotypes.

Voices Oral History Archives does not verify the accuracy of materials submitted to us. The opinions expressed in the interviews are those of the interviewee only. The interviews here have been made available to the public only after the interviewer has confirmed that they have obtained consent.