Photo:Dave Decker/Shutterstock

Dr. Joseph Dituri, a University of South Florida researcher who has been living 22-feet undersea for 100 days, resurfaced on Friday, June 9th. Dituri resurfaced in Key Largo, FL, where he first began his 100-day mission on March 1st.

Dave Decker/Shutterstock

“Dr. Deep Sea” has resurfaced!Joseph Dituri, 55,who set a Guinness World Record last monthfor living 73 days underwater without depressurization, reached his goal of 100 days at the bottom of a 30-foot lagoon in Key Largo, Florida.

“It was never about the record,” Dituritold the Associated Presson Friday, shortly after returning to dry land. “It was about extending human tolerance for the underwater world and for an isolated, confined, extreme environment."

Dituri spent his time underwater teaching his students from the University of South Florida, where he is a professor. The scuba diver holds a doctorate in biomedical engineering and is a retired U.S. Naval officer, per the AP.

With a goal to learn more about how the human body can adapt and respond to a pressurized environment, the educator and scientist undertook daily experiments and completed a variety of tests underwater.

Marine Resources Development Foundation

Dr. Joseph Dituri Jules

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“While breaking the world record is an exciting milestone, my mission doesn’t end here,” he wrote onInstagramat the time. “I have 23 more days undersea to conduct research, engage with learners of all ages, and continue my journey of discovery.”

source: people.com