Everyone who dives at STRI facilities must be certified by the diving officer, or have a letter of reciprocity from their home research institution. Please contact Raul De Leon, STRI’s diving officer, at least three months ahead of your visit to make arrangements.
The Smithsonian Institution Scientific Diving Program is overseen by the Office of the Under Secretary for Science. The program promotes and supports the underwater research activities and diving safety of Smithsonian scientific divers. Smithsonian policy regarding diving activities conducted under its auspices is published by the Scientific Diving Control Board and this information is updated on the dive program’s website.
There are three types of Smithsonian scientific diving authorizations: for Smithsonian employees, visiting scientists with diving reciprocity, and temporary diving authorization.
Please note:
Consult the Smithsonian Diving Safety Manual.