German Engineer Breaks World Record for Underwater Living, Staying 120 Days Below Surface
Rudiger Koch, a 59-year-old German aerospace engineer, has set a new world record for the longest time spent living underwater without depressurisation, spending a remarkable 120 days in a submerged capsule off the coast of Panama. Koch emerged from his 30-square-meter home located 11 meters underwater on January 25, 2025, celebrated by Guinness World Records adjudicator Susana Reyes.
Koch's achievement surpassed the previous record of 100 days set by American Joseph Dituri, who lived in an underwater lodge in Florida. After his record-breaking stay, Koch expressed a mix of excitement and regret, stating, "It was a great adventure and now it’s over there’s almost a sense of regret actually." He enjoyed the unique beauty of the underwater environment, describing the calming dark waters and glowing sea.
During his time underwater, Koch's capsule was equipped with basic modern amenities, including a bed, toilet, TV, and internet access, with plenty of food delivered by visitors. He was also monitored 24/7 by cameras to ensure he remained below the surface for the entire duration of the record attempt.
Koch hopes that his record will encourage people to consider the seas as a viable environment for human expansion and habitation. He celebrated his achievement with champagne and a cigar before being taken back to shore, where a party awaited him.
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