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Underwater explorers experience 'Underview Effect,' akin to astronauts' awe

From Hankyoreh · () Korean

Translated from Korean, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

In-depth Sources not specified Context piece
  • Marine explorers experience a profound sense of awe and connection to their environment, similar to astronauts' 'Overview Effect'.
  • Researchers have coined the term 'Underview Effect' to describe this phenomenon experienced in underwater habitats.
  • Extended time in underwater environments fosters a deep appreciation for marine ecosystems and interconnectedness.

Just as astronauts gazing at Earth from space experience a profound shift in perspective, known as the 'Overview Effect,' marine explorers immersed in underwater habitats report similar feelings of awe and interconnectedness. This phenomenon, where individuals gain a new appreciation for humanity and the planet's fragility, was first described by Frank White in 1987.

We are all one team, no matter what happens, on this planet called Earth.

— Christina KochArtemis 2 astronaut describing her experience viewing Earth from space.

Now, researchers have identified a parallel experience among those living and working in underwater research stations. A study of 14 marine explorers at Northeastern University's Aquarius reef base revealed they experience intense wonder and a strong sense of unity comparable to astronauts. The study's authors have termed this the 'Underview Effect,' drawing a parallel to 'astronauts' by calling these individuals 'aquanauts.'

Aquanauts can spend more than 8 hours a day diving without decompression.

— Christine KillgallenExplaining the unique capabilities of aquanauts compared to scuba divers.

Unlike scuba divers who have limited time underwater, aquanauts can spend extended periods, even over eight hours a day, in underwater labs without decompression stops. This allows for a deeper immersion and observation of marine life. One aquanaut, marine biologist Mark Patterson, described his experience of witnessing bioluminescent plankton and realizing that underwater living was the "coolest thing" he could do.

Underwater living seemed like the coolest thing I could possibly do.

— Mark PattersonDescribing his realization about the profoundness of underwater exploration.

Participants in the study reported that their time underwater heightened their awareness of nature and strengthened their bond with it. Seventy percent felt increased awe and gratitude, while 64% felt more immersed in their surroundings. While sharing the sense of interconnectedness with astronauts, aquanauts felt a particularly strong connection to specific marine environments. Extended stays, researchers noted, significantly amplify these feelings, leading to a transformed perception of the ocean and its inhabitants.

Aquanauts felt the same sense of interconnectedness as space explorers, but with a stronger perception of connection to specific marine environments.

— Christine KillgallenComparing the psychological effects experienced by aquanauts and astronauts.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Hankyoreh in Korean. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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