Sylvia Earle

ocean · marine biology · explorer

Deep sea diver. Sylvia Earle has spent thousands of hours underwater exploring the ocean, including a record-breaking solo dive to 1,250 meters deep in a special submarine called a submersible.

Ocean scientist. She was the first chief scientist of the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, a huge government agency that studies and protects our oceans and atmosphere.

Planet hero. Time Magazine named Sylvia Earle its first Hero for the Planet in 1998 because she has dedicated her life to understanding and protecting ocean ecosystems.

Explorer at Large. Since 1998, National Geographic has recognized her as an Explorer at Large, giving her resources to continue her research and adventures around the world.

Ocean advocate. Beyond her scientific discoveries, Earle writes and speaks passionately about why we need to protect the ocean and all the amazing creatures that live in it.