Thomas F. Malone
American Meteorological Society Oral History Project
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.
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On February 18, 1989, Earl Droessler interviewed Thomas F. Malone at St. Joseph’s College in Hartford, Connecticut, as part of a tape-recorded interview project for the American Meteorological Society (AMS). The interview focuses on developments in atmospheric sciences and the evolution of the AMS since World War II. Malone reflects on his tenure as AMS President (1960–1961), highlighting the pivotal decision to rename the Journal of Meteorology to the Journal of Atmospheric Sciences, marking a shift toward broader scientific engagement. He discusses the challenges of fostering international collaboration in a field intrinsically tied to global phenomena, emphasizing initiatives like the Global Atmospheric Research Program (GARP).
Malone recounts key moments in his presidency and his role in influencing scientific discourse within international organizations, including the American Geophysical Union (AGU) and the World Meteorological Organization (WMO). He explores the intersection of atmospheric sciences with global policy, referencing discussions with figures like Bruno Rossi, Jule Charney, and others regarding human impacts on the atmosphere. The interview also delves into Malone’s efforts to bridge scientific and societal needs through AMS activities and his advocacy for dynamic interactions among science, technology, and society.
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