IMarEST TV recording by the IMarEST Houston (US Gulf Coast) Branch on the 29th September 2020. This webinar was presented by Shaylyn Potter, undersea specialist for Lindblad Expeditions National Geographic.

In this webinar Shaylyn shares the ins-and-outs of being a polar scuba diver, discusses the species and ecology of the Southern Ocean, and looks to the future of Antarctic science and explorations.

Antarctica and the surrounding Southern Ocean is still one of the wildest, hostile, and least explored regions of our planet. From the surface, the continent appears to be monochromatic and the dark water might seem void of life. However, once you dip your head below the water’s surface, you’ll find a lively, vibrant underwater world!

Working as an undersea specialist and polar expedition diver with Lindblad Expeditions National Geographic, Shaylyn Potter uses underwater videography to help transport others to the icy depths of the Southern Ocean. Diving amongst massive icebergs and in water that is below the freezing point of freshwater can be intense, and it requires both physical and mental strength. There is little room for error while diving in the wild Southern Ocean, so you have to be incredibly confident in your training, abilities, and gear.

Watch Now (IMarEST Members only)

About the Speaker

While studying abroad at James Cook University in Townsville, Queensland, Australia in 2008, Shaylyn began scuba diving—a passion that unexpectedly shaped her career path. With academics following suit to her passion, she studied marine biology Oregon State University.

Now working with Lindblad Expeditions National Geographic as an undersea specialist, Shaylyn travels from pole to pole helping people explore some of Earth’s most remote wilderness areas. Though she loves all things ocean related, she prefers spending her time chasing polar summers and diving amongst the ice in the Arctic and Antarctic. Her goal is to use underwater photography and videography as a tool for education.