Aquarius Reef Base in Key Largo, Florida is a unique ocean science and diving facility within the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary providing unparalleled means to study coral reefs and the ocean, to test state-of-the-art undersea technology, to train students, astronauts, and Navy divers, and to engage the imagination of people across the globe in ocean science, coral reefs, conservation, and underwater technology.

A team of scientists led by Dr. James Lindholm will use Aquarius to evaluate where fishes go and the how they interact with the seafloor. Their results will help to determine the effectiveness of the no-take reserve at Conch Reef and to help design other marine protected areas were similar fish species are targeting for protection. Working side-by-side with the science team and interacting with students, educators and the public during the mission will be two high school teachers chosen from a nation-wide pool of applicants. Mark Tohulka from MAST Academy in Miami will be part of the underwater aquanaut team, and Steven Houwen from Alameda High School in Colorado will participate as an aquanaut alternate in training and part of the science crew at the surface. While assisting with research, both Mark and Steve will be participating in live broadcasts from underwater, blogging, video conferencing with classrooms, and interacting online with the public.

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