An unexpected opportunity

Today started as almost everyday had on this mission. But today was somewhat different because we knew it was the last day. I experienced many feelings today; a kind of sadness that the Challenge Project was coming to an end, pleasure from all of the wonderful people I've met and worked with, sheer excitement on what we accomplished, and a fond recollection of what it is like not to have to put on wet dive equipment at dawn! I learned from inside myself, however, I could do this for a living!

A once in a lifetime opportunity came up for me. Because of a change in the schedule, we had one day that was open. I had a chance to not only get qualified as a Mission Commander but also an Aquanaut! (An Aquanaut is defined as someone who has lived in an underwater habitat for 24 consecutive hours). It is as close as I will ever come to knowing what it feels like to be an astronaut, a dream of mine. There were a few little concerns. First, I am claustrophobic. Second, I have to do a night dive which is something I am not really fond of. Other than that, no problem!

It was a fairly quiet day with only 2 chat sessions planned. To me that equates to at least 4 transport dives. After work, I hurriedly gathered personal items and food I wanted for my 24 hours under the sea. Then it was time for a fitful night's rest in anticipation of the next challenge of this mission.