Dr. Edie Widder, a renowned scientist with the Vero Beach-based non-profit Ocean Research & Conservation Association (ORCA), will be featured in “Giants of the Deep,” premiering August 18 at 10 PM as part of National Geographic’s new OceanXplorers six-part series. This highly anticipated series is produced by the esteemed James Cameron (executive producer/narrator), in collaboration with BBC Studios Natural History Unit and OceanX, and focuses on leveraging advanced technology to explore the ocean in groundbreaking ways.
Dr. Widder shares her excitement about the project: “We had two Triton submersibles and an ROV outfitted with the best low-light cameras I’ve ever worked with. The result was mind-blowing bioluminescence recordings. We were also testing new drifting deep-sea cameras that are smaller versions of the one we used to get the first video recordings of a giant squid. The result is a lot of never-before-seen views of life in the largest, least explored living space on the planet.”
“OceanXplorers” will provide viewers with unprecedented insights into the mysteries of the deep ocean. Each episode will delve into unique aspects of marine exploration, showcasing the innovative technologies that make these discoveries possible.
Local viewers will take special pride in knowing that the Triton submersibles featured in the series are Triton 3300/3s, manufactured by Triton Submarines in Sebastian, Florida. Additionally, the drifter cameras used in the series were crafted by Arctic Rays in Satellite Beach, Florida. This highlights the exceptional contributions of local technology to global scientific advancements.
“Giants of the Deep” premieres August 18 on National Geographic. All episodes will be available for streaming the next day on Disney+ and Hulu, offering audiences the opportunity to immerse themselves in the wonders of the deep ocean.
About ORCA: Founded in 2005 by Dr. Edie Widder, the Ocean Research & Conservation Association (ORCA) is dedicated to the protection and restoration of aquatic ecosystems and the species they sustain through the development of innovative technologies, science based conservation action and community education and outreach.