Reported By: Jay Cashmere
There's a little secret in the waters off Key Largo which happens to be very important to the future of our oceans.
The Aquarius Undersea Research Station has been operational for 25 years and yet many are not privy to its mission.
Our own NewsChannel 5's Jay Cashmere had the opportunity to find out more about this little lab with a big purpose.
This lab is quite unique for the simple fact many people don't know about it.
Its not open for recreational divers
In fact those who enter have to go through special training which we found when we visited several weeks ago.
60 feet below the surface nestled 9 miles from the shore of Key Largo lies a place unknown to many. It's hidden away and only certain divers are allowed in.
"Its not just science, it's not just training astronauts, it's a diversity of unique assets for the nation"
This is the Aquarius Undersea Research Station. An 80 ton steel chamber 43 feet long supporting 89 missions since 1993.
'Its like living in an RV.. same size except it's underwater. One way I put it.. you have to play well with others everyone is in close contact everyone does dishes clean up afer each other"
Scientists, Navy divers and NASA astronauts use the facility. Access is tight and very restricted. We were only allowed a teleconference with scientists in the chamber.
The experience is one of kind for all who enter. Saturation allows for extended bottom time or more dive time...up to 9 hours if needed. On the inside research never stops.
"We actually have internet down here you can do emails. Now we have cell phone capabilities"
Food is typically dehydrated camping meals. We're told hot sauce is common fixture on the table. There's a DVD player. But rest assured this is no place to relax. Work is non stop and the views can be extraordinary.
"Pink jellyfish were endulating past viewpoints"
Owned by NOAA and operated by University of North Carolina Wilmington, this unique ocean science and diving facility has provided an unparalleled way to study coral reefs and the ocean.
"Everytime we have a mission there's actually a surface crew that's watching and monitoring life support systems, safety of divers the safety of people inside the habitat"
Its a critical component that helps each mission achieve success, helping to create an environment unmatched in the world that keeps an open door to science and the future of our oceans.
"Everybody leaves not only what they can accomplish but the team effort what goes into making missions happen"
89 missions have come out here resulting in over 300 scientific publications.
