Joseph Dituri Aims to Set Record for Over 3 Months Underwater to Conduct Research and Inspire Ocean Conservation.
Dituri is living in an underwater hotel. (Video: Joseph Dituri)
Since March 1, Joseph Dituri, a biomedical engineer and former U.S. Navy veteran, has not seen sunlight as he aims to spend 100 days underwater for scientific research. If successful, this underwater residency plan will break the current world record set by two biologists in Tennessee in 2014 (73 days), according to Smithsonian.
Nicknamed Dr. Deep Sea, Dituri is residing in the Jules’ Undersea Lodge in Key Largo, Florida, where the previous record was set. The hotel, measuring 9.3 square meters and located over 9 meters deep, will be his home until June 9. During this time, Dituri will conduct research and deliver virtual lectures for students at the University of South Florida. He will also explore the effects of living in a high-pressure environment for an extended period. To prevent water from entering the hotel, air must be pumped in regularly to create a pressure approximately 1.6 times that at Earth’s surface.
“The human body has never been underwater for such an extended period, so I will be closely monitored,” Dituri shared. “This research will assess all aspects of how the journey impacts the body, but the hypothesis is that my health will improve significantly due to the increased pressure.”
Joseph Dituri living in Jules’ Undersea Lodge in Key Largo, Florida.
This hypothesis stems from studies indicating the positive effects of pressure on cell growth and survival. Dituri hopes that his underwater experience might reveal methods to combat age-related diseases and extend lifespan. He is also interested in the potential of hyperbaric therapy, which includes breathing oxygen at high pressures, to treat brain injuries that many soldiers encounter during their service.
Prior to submerging, Dituri underwent medical and psychological evaluations, including blood tests, ultrasounds, ECGs, and stem cell assessments. He will continue to be monitored during and after his 100 days underwater. Dituri is also taking vitamin D and has a regular schedule for psychological check-ups. “Mental health is crucial because you are in an isolated and confined environment,” Dituri stated.
Additionally, the researcher will test a NASA-developed AI health monitor designed to ensure astronaut safety during long-duration space missions, using the underwater environment to simulate outer space. This project also presents an opportunity to promote marine conservation and inspire young scientists.
