120 Days Submerged: German Engineer’s Historic Feat

German aerospace engineer Rudiger Koch has set a new world record by spending 120 days living underwater without depressurization in a specially designed capsule off the coast of Panama. On Friday, Koch, 59, emerged from his 30-square-meter underwater home, greeted by Guinness World Records adjudicator Susana Reyes, who confirmed that he had broken the previous record of 100 days held by American Joseph Dituri.

Reflecting on his experience, Koch shared, "It was a great adventure, and now that it’s over, there’s almost a sense of regret. The underwater world is magical, especially when it’s calm, dark, and the sea starts glowing." His capsule, located 11 meters below the surface, offered a unique view through portholes that he said could only be appreciated by experiencing it firsthand. To celebrate the achievement, Koch toasted with champagne, smoked a cigar, and dove into the Caribbean Sea before being picked up for a celebratory event on dry land.

Koch’s underwater capsule was equipped with modern amenities, including a bed, toilet, TV, internet, and even an exercise bike. Food and supplies were delivered via a tube connected to another chamber above the water, while solar panels provided electricity. Despite the comforts, there was no shower in the capsule. Cameras monitored Koch’s activities throughout his stay, ensuring the record was valid and his mental health remained stable.

Inspired by Captain Nemo from Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea, Koch said the experiment aimed to change perceptions about underwater living. "This proves that the seas can be a viable environment for human expansion," he explained. His remarkable achievement highlights the potential for innovation and exploration in the underwater world, blending science fiction with real-world possibilities.