Over the weekend, a university professor set a new record for the length of time spent living underwater without experiencing depressurization, the Guardian reported. This took place at a Florida Keys location that is popular among scuba diving enthusiasts. Joseph Dituri observed no significant changes in his routine on his 74th day at Jules' Undersea Lodge, located at a depth of 30ft in Key Largo, compared to his previous days since submerging on March 1.
Dituri, known as "Dr. Deep Sea," consumed a meal containing high levels of protein in the form of eggs and salmon that were heated with a microwave, completed a resistance band workout, performed his routine daily push-ups, and then enjoyed a refreshing hour of rest. While a submarine relies on technology to cope with rising water pressure, the lodge does not utilize any technological means to modify its functioning in such conditions.
In 2014, at the same location, two Tennessee professors, Bruce Cantrell and Jessica Fain, set the record of 73 days, two hours, and 34 minutes which has now been surpassed.
Dituri's intention is not only to achieve a new record and emerge from the water, but he also intends to remain at the lodge until 9th June in order to accomplish his underwater undertaking, Project Neptune 100, where he aims to spend a total of 100 days.
The Marine Resources Development Foundation, which owns the habitat, has arranged a mission that incorporates both medical and oceanic research, as well as educational outreach.
Dituri, a retired US naval officer and current biomedical engineering professor at the University of South Florida, expressed gratitude for the record, which she considers to be a minor accomplishment. Although I am grateful to possess it, there is still more scientific research to be conducted.