Scientists to live in Aquarius Reef Base under the sea for 31 days

Aquarius Base (Credit: NASA, via Wikimedia Commons)

The grandson of famed sea explorer Jacques Cousteau is aiming to beat his grandfather’s record for living underwater, according to Science World Report. Fabien Cousteau, along with scientists and filmmakers, will soon move aboard Aquarius Reef Base, an underwater lab owned by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

The underwater stint is set to begin on Sept. 30 and will continue for a total of 31 days, surpassing the elder Cousteau’s record by one day. While living in the deep, they’ll collect data on the effects of climate change on corals, sponges and sea life.

New technologies will be run through tests, and those living in the base will also be studied to chart the physiological and psychological impacts of living in prolonged underwater confinement. The Aquarius Reef Base is 63 feet underwater in the Florida Keys and managed by Florida International University.

Image: Aquarius Reef Base (Credit: NASA, via Wikimedia Commons)