Palo Alto, United States - August 15, 2025 An Argentinian-led expedition aboard Schmidt Ocean Institute’s R/V Falkor (too) has mesmerized millions with the first live, high-tech exploration of Argentina’s Mar del Plata Canyon. Over 21 days, the remotely operated vehicle (ROV) SuBastian revealed coral fields, shimmering squids, pink lobsters, and a seastar resembling Patrick Star from SpongeBob. Nearly 4 million viewers followed the dives live from homes, classrooms, and even gyms, with Argentinians making up three-quarters of the audience. “The deep sea and its awe-inspiring life — from bright corals to mesmerizing octopuses — has captivated an entire nation,” said Wendy Schmidt, co-founder and president of Schmidt Ocean Institute. This was the first time scientists have observed the canyon directly. Previous research relied on net and trawl samples collected in 2012 and 2013. Chief Scientist Dr. Daniel Lauretta called it “a once-in-a-lifetime experience” and praised the ROV’s image quality for helping to understand the habitat’s complexity. The canyon lies 300 kilometers offshore from Mar del Plata, with depths exceeding 3,500 meters — nearly twice that of the Grand Canyon. At 1,014 meters, scientists found stony coral Bathelia candida, while at 1,500 meters they discovered vast fields of red mushroom coral Anthomastus sp. Over 40 suspected new species were recorded, including sea anemones, cucumbers, urchins, snails, corals, and crinoids. Engagement shattered previous records, with dives averaging 500,000 views and totaling over 17.5 million in three weeks. Dr. Martín Brogger said the livestreams inspired children to dream of becoming marine biologists. The team also documented human impacts, finding debris such as shoes, plastic bags, and fishing gear. “This cruise underscores the power of ocean exploration and science in igniting the imagination,” said Dr. Jyotika Virmani, executive director of Schmidt Ocean Institute.