Diving as a Tool for Science and Research

The development of scuba equipment opened up the marine world to scientists and adventurers alike. Many of the incredible ecosystems and maritime heritage sites protected by the National Marine Sanctuary System were first explored by divers, who strove to protect these beautiful places. Today, volunteers and NOAA staff rely on scuba equipment to dive deeper and perform critical scientific research to better understand our national marine sanctuaries and marine national monuments.

two people in a decompression chamber

Monitor National Marine Sanctuary. Photo courtesy of NOAA

 

diver holding on the side of a boat

Cordell Bank National Marine Sanctuary. Photo courtesy of Dan Howard

 

diver swimming above a reef

Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: NOAA

 

diver sitting on the side of a boat

Gray's Reef National Marine Sanctuary. Photo courtesy of George Sedberry