Morton J. Rubin

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/

Date of Interview
12-14-1991
Audio
Abstract

On December 14, 1991, Gordon D. Cartwright interviewed Morton J. Rubin for the American Meteorological Society's Tape Recorded Interview Project at Rubin’s home in Bethesda, Maryland. The interview explores Rubin’s extensive career in meteorology, beginning with his early life in Philadelphia, his education at Penn State, and his entry into the field through a civil service examination. Rubin recounts his experiences working for the Weather Bureau, including his tenure as a minor observer in Philadelphia and later assignments at Kylertown, Pennsylvania. He details his pursuit of a degree in meteorology, his interactions with influential figures like C. G. Rossby, and his contributions during World War II, including forecasting for Pan American Grace Airways in South America. The interview highlights Rubin’s work in developing weather stations, training personnel, and addressing the challenges of meteorological data collection in remote areas. He discusses his tenure at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), where he completed a master’s degree and contributed to the Southern Hemisphere Analysis Project. Rubin reflects on his role in pioneering weather analysis in the Antarctic, including his involvement in the International Geophysical Year (IGY) and establishing an Antarctic Weather Central. Throughout the interview, Rubin provides insights into the evolution of meteorology as a science, his collaboration with international colleagues, and his transition from operational meteorology to research and administrative roles. The interview offers a comprehensive account of Rubin’s contributions to meteorology, including his work in South America, the Antarctic, and with international meteorological organizations. 

 


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