A world record holder who lived underwater for 120 days without a shower shared the first thing he did after returning to land.
Rudiger Koch, a 59-year-old aerospace engineer from Germany, has made headlines by spending an incredible 120 days living underwater in a small steel pod.
This remarkable achievement has earned him a world record for the longest time spent submerged without depressurization.
Koch’s adventure began on September 26, 2024, off the coast of Puerto Lindo in Panama.
Man lives underwater in the tiny steel pod
Koch lived in a compact capsule known as the SeaPod Alpha Deep, which measured just 320 square feet.
The interior of the pod was basic but functional, as it included essentials like a TV, a computer, an exercise bike, and a portable toilet.
Despite being underwater, Koch was able to connect to the internet via satellite, allowing him to stay in touch with the outside world.
Electricity was provided by solar panels and a backup generator, ensuring that Koch had power for his devices.
The pod was connected to another chamber above water through a vertical tube, which was used to deliver food during his stay.
This setup allowed him to have visits from family, friends, and journalists, making his experience a bit more social.
Man who spent 120 days underwater shares what he did first when coming back to land
After completing his record-breaking stay, the first thing Koch did was celebrate.
He popped open a bottle of champagne and enjoyed a cigar.
Following his celebration, he leaped into the warm waters of the Caribbean Sea, a refreshing reward after months in the confined space.
Koch expressed mixed feelings about his adventure.
“It was a great adventure, and now that it’s over, there’s almost a sense of regret,” he said.
He enjoyed his time underwater and appreciated the unique experience it offered.
“I enjoyed my time here very much.”
What did he miss most?
During his time underwater, Koch realized he missed some things from life on the surface, particularly a proper shower.
He mentioned how he looked forward to getting a good wash after spending so long without one.
This sentiment highlights the challenges of living in such a confined space for an extended period.
Koch joked about his living situation, noting that while his wife might have been worried, he was still married during his time underwater.
The beauty of the underwater world
Despite the challenges, Koch also found beauty in his surroundings.
The pod had several circular windows that offered stunning views of the ocean.
He described how the sea would glow at night, creating a magical atmosphere.
“It is beautiful when things calm down and it gets dark,” he said. “You have to experience that yourself.”
Koch also enjoyed the sounds of marine life.
He could hear crustaceans and fish outside the pod, adding to the overall experience of living underwater.
The sights and sounds of the ocean made his time in the pod memorable.
The record and its significance
Koch’s achievement surpassed the previous record of 100 days set by American Joseph Dituri in an underwater lodge in Florida.
Koch’s record-setting feat has drawn attention to the possibilities of underwater living and the human capacity for endurance.
His experience serves as an inspiration for others, showing that with determination and the right mindset, extraordinary feats can be accomplished.
Koch has not only set a record but also explored the depths of human experience in isolation.