Rüdiger Koch, a German aerospace engineer, has set a remarkable new world record for the longest time spent underwater without pressure equalization, achieving an astonishing 120 days in a submerged capsule off the coast of Panama. This record-breaking feat was confirmed on January 24, 2025, as Koch resurfaced from his 30-square-meter underwater home, witnessed by Guinness World Records adjudicator Susana Reyes.
Koch's achievement surpasses the previous record held by American Joseph Dituri, who spent 100 days underwater. Describing his experience as a 'great adventure,' Koch expressed his enjoyment of life beneath the waves, particularly admiring the stunning views through the portholes of his capsule, situated 11 meters deep in the ocean. He highlighted the tranquil beauty of the underwater environment, stating, 'When everything calms down and it gets dark, the sea glows.'
To celebrate his accomplishment, Koch indulged in a glass of champagne and a cigar before taking his first swim in the Caribbean Sea after 120 days. His underwater capsule, located approximately 15 minutes by boat from Panama's northern coast, is equipped with various amenities, including a bed, toilet, television, computer, and internet access, although it lacks a shower. Solar panels provide electricity for the capsule.
This extraordinary record not only showcases human endurance but also contributes to the growing interest in underwater exploration and the potential for future record-breaking endeavors.