Day 1 started out great. The scientists "dropped off" from the Delta (one of our work boats) diving directly to their 105 ft site to start the mission, while Mike Smith and I stayed back inside Aquarius to make sure everything was all set. Science gear and food needed to be packed away too.

As with every first mission day, there is a little confusion and a lot of excitement. Dr. Leichter's science team started right in, using their dive time effectively and they got a lot done right from the start.

This is my first mission as the Senior Technician inside Aquarius, so my hands are full. I will spend the next nine days monitoring and maintaining the Aquarius life support systems, including atmosphere control, computers, electrical equipment, and communications - so the scientists can focus on their research.

Till next time...