What Happens If You Lived Underwater?

On the remarkable date of June 9, 2023, a bold biomedical engineer named Joseph Dituri emerged ever so gradually from the crystal-clear waters off Key Largo, Florida. His claim to fame? Living underwater for an incredible 100 days. Yes, you read that right. He ate, slept, and even taught university classes, all while submerged 6.7 meters below the waves in a cozy 9.3 square meter living space. It's not just a record; it's an underwater odyssey.

Now, let's rewind a bit. This audacious aquatic adventure, or aquanautics as they call it, has its roots in the 1960s. But it's not just about breaking records; it's about diving into the unknown and understanding how our bodies cope with extreme environments. Think about astronauts in space; their cramped quarters are pretty similar to what these aquanauts deal with underwater. It's like exploring space right here on Earth.

One iconic underwater hub is the Aquarius research base off the coast of Key Largo. Imagine this: scientists and aspiring astronauts bunking down 19 meters below the ocean surface for up to three weeks. Recent studies there, backed by NASA, involved aquanauts spending a good 9 to 10 days submerged. They weren't just testing their physical limits; they were unraveling the mysteries of underwater living, from the way it affects their bodies to the impact on their state of mind.

Physiologically, these underwater pioneers showed lower blood pressure, heart rate, and breathing rate compared to us landlubbers. Why? Well, the air they were breathing underwater had a lot more pressure. Breathing became a workout, but it seems that the denser air also made them shed some weight—about 1.3 kilograms on average. It's like an underwater gym session with a metabolism boost thrown in.

Psychologically, despite some initial stress, these aquanauts reported keeping their spirits high. How? They could connect with loved ones and even binge-watch Netflix. Yes, you heard it right; they were streaming shows from beneath the waves. It challenges the idea that long confinement equals a psychological toll.

Now, let's take a dive into history. In 1965, SEALAB II had aquanauts spending a good 15 days 62 meters below the surface. Tight spaces and humidity wreaked havoc, but the crew weathered it surprisingly well. The Tektite I mission in 1969 lasted a whopping 60 days, and guess what? No significant changes in their blood chemistry, blood cell count, or immune systems. It's like living in an underwater science experiment, and the results were surprisingly uneventful.

Fast forward to the present, and Joseph Dituri breaks records with a 100-day underwater extravaganza. While the scientific community is still dotting the i's and crossing the t's, Dituri spilled some beans. Apparently, he got a tad shorter and temporarily nearsighted. Blame it on the underwater lifestyle. But here's the twist—his cholesterol improved, his sleep quality got a boost, and inflammation levels took a dive. It's like an underwater spa retreat for the body.

Of course, lingering concerns persist about the potential hazards of living underwater for extended periods. Breathing denser air, laden with oxygen, might pose risks to circulation systems. Studies hint at adaptability, but we're talking about prolonged underwater stays here, not just a weekend getaway.

Dituri's revelations, though still awaiting the official scientific nod, shout out the need for more research. It's not just about breaking records; it's about understanding how our bodies and minds navigate the uncharted waters of extreme living. As humanity keeps pushing the boundaries of exploration, underwater habitats emerge as more than just scientific hubs; they're windows into the resilience of the human spirit. The secrets of the sea might just hold the key to unraveling the mysteries of our own endurance. Dive in, and let the exploration continue.