Scuba Diving is an extremely enjoyable sport that so many people take part in. Have you ever wondered where it all began?
The very first mechanical aid to underwater diving comes in the form of a “Diving Bell”. Developed in the 16th century by Guglielmo de Lorena, they were rigid chambers lowered into the water and ballasted so as to be negatively buoyant and sink while full of air. Back then they were mainly used for salvage work, however, in 1691 Dr. Edmond Halley completed the plans for a greatly improved diving bell. It was capable of remaining submerged for extended periods of time, and was fitted with a window for the purpose of undersea exploration. Dr.Halley and five companions dived to 18 metres in the River Thames as a demonstration and they remained there for over an hour and a half. Improvements made to it over time, extended his underwater exposure time to over 4 hours.
Just imagine all the advancements brought about to make diving more versatile, easy, fun and safe. We sure have come a long way!