Dr. Joseph Dituri, also known as "Dr. Deep Sea," has emerged from Jules' Undersea Lodge in Key Largo, Florida, after an unprecedented 100 days beneath the waves. This feat establishes a new record for the longest duration living underwater without depressurization at ambient pressure. The previous record of 73 days was set in 2014 at the same location.

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Dituri's mission, dubbed Project Neptune 100, was organized by the Marine Resources Development Foundation. Beyond setting a new record, the project focused on researching the physiological and psychological effects of long-term underwater habitation in an isolated environment. This research holds potential benefits for future ocean researchers and astronauts undertaking extended missions.

The submerged scientist emphasized that the record itself was secondary to the broader scientific goals. His aim was to push the boundaries of human adaptability in extreme underwater and isolated settings.

Dituri, a University of South Florida educator with a doctorate in biomedical engineering and a retired U.S. Naval officer, meticulously conducted daily experiments to track his body's adaptation to increased pressure. He also engaged with thousands of students worldwide via online platforms, conducted a USF course, and hosted numerous visitors at the underwater habitat.

Dituri's educational outreach, reaching approximately 5,000 students in 12 countries, aimed to inspire environmental awareness and encourage the preservation and rejuvenation of marine ecosystems. He plans to present his research findings at the World Extreme Medicine Conference in Scotland this November.