Aquanaut facts for kids
An aquanaut is a person who lives and works underwater for at least 24 hours. They stay in a special building called an underwater habitat, which is placed on the ocean floor. While inside, they are exposed to the same pressure as the water around them at that depth.
History of Aquanauts
The first person to spend more than 24 hours living underwater was Robert Sténuit from France. This happened in September 1962.
The United States Navy also had a program called SEALAB in the 1960s. In this program, military aquanauts and scientists lived for periods on the ocean bottom. Sadly, the SEALAB program ended in February 1969 after one aquanaut, Berry L. Cannon, had a serious problem with his air supply.
Modern Underwater Missions
Today, NASA uses the Aquarius underwater habitat, located off Key Largo in Florida. They run programs called "NASA Extreme Environment Mission Operations" (NEEMO).
The NEEMO programs help teach astronauts how to live and work in challenging places, much like they would in outer space. It's a great way for them to practice teamwork and problem-solving in a unique environment.
Related pages
See also
In Spanish: Acuanauta para niños
