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Shaping The Future Of Marine Exploration

Bassel Ounah's work with Neptune's Submerge is a prime example of how technology and marine exploration can come together to create a safer, more immersive experience for divers.

Author:Camilo Wood
Reviewer:Dexter Cooke
Feb 07, 2025
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5.7K Views
Bassel Ounah's work with Neptune's Submerge is a prime example of how technology and marine exploration can come together to create a safer, more immersive experience for divers. At the heart of his innovation are advanced virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) systems that allow divers to experience the underwater world without the immediate risks posed by the unpredictable ocean environment. This concept, which has redefined training in the freediving community, highlights Ounah's ability to blend cutting-edge technology with the physical and mental demands of diving.
Freediving, unlike other forms of underwater exploration, requires unparalleled concentration, mental control, and physical endurance. Divers rely on their ability to hold their breath and navigate natural underwater conditions, often in challenging environments like deep sea beds or coral reefs. By incorporating immersive technology into training sessions, Ounah has provided a way for divers to experience these conditions in a controlled, simulated environment before they encounter the real thing. This ensures that they are better prepared to manage the stresses of freediving, thus enhancing their safety.
Neptune's Submerge, under Ounah's leadership, has also made great strides in raising awareness about the ocean's fragility. One of the company's most impactful initiatives has been the creation of virtual experiences designed to highlight the consequences of human activity on marine ecosystems. Through detailed VR simulations, participants can witness the effects of pollution, coral bleaching, and other environmental threats in real-time. This immersive experience aims not only to educate but also to inspire a deeper connection to marine conservation efforts.
The University of Salford has played a crucial role in supporting these advancements. Through collaborations with the university's Center of Digital Innovation (CDI) and Centre for Sustainable Innovation (CSI), Neptune's Submerge has been able to develop and refine its technologies, ensuring they provide both an educational and engaging experience.
This focus on education is central to Ounah's mission. It's not enough for him to simply offer a fun or thrilling experience. Instead, his goal is to create platforms that deepen people's understanding of the ocean and its ecosystems. Ounah sees VR and AR as powerful tools for storytelling and education, allowing individuals to explore parts of the underwater world that might otherwise be inaccessible.
While Neptune's Submerge focuses on training and awareness, Ounah's work at Apnea Zone, based in Dubai, is an equally important part of his efforts to promote marine education. Apnea Zone goes beyond traditional freediving instruction, offering participants the opportunity to engage in various underwater activities such as spearfishing and mermaiding.
At Apnea Zone, Ounah has structured programs to ensure participants gain not only the skills they need to navigate underwater environments but also an understanding of the ecosystems they are exploring. His approach is a delicate balance of education and entertainment, making underwater activities enjoyable and impactful.
Ounah's leadership in this area has cemented his position as a key figure in the diving and conservation communities. His ability to innovate and apply new technologies has brought fresh perspectives to an age-old practice, making it accessible to a broader audience while reinforcing the need for sustainable interaction with the ocean. His campaigns, such as "Drops in the Oceans," showcase this commitment, using VR to allow users to experience the effects of environmental degradation on marine ecosystems in a deeply personal way.
Collaboration has been an essential part of Ounah's journey. Beyond his work with academic institutions, Neptune's Submerge has partnered with organizations such as AVimmerse and Metaverse Learning, both of which specialize in immersive technologies. These partnerships have allowed Neptune's Submerge to enhance the quality and scope of its VR simulations, making them more immersive and educational. Through these collaborations, Ounah continues to push the boundaries of what can be achieved with technology, offering a glimpse into the future of diving, and the future of how we interact with and learn about the world's oceans.
Ounah's efforts have not gone unnoticed, especially in his home city of Manchester, where he has recently stepped into the public sphere as a candidate for the Manchester City Council. His campaign focuses on sustainability, promoting eco-friendly practices in urban planning, and integrating technology to address environmental challenges. His work with immersive technology at Neptune's Submerge has undoubtedly influenced his vision for the city, as he advocates for using similar innovations to improve urban living conditions and reduce environmental impact.
Bassel Ounah's contributions to diving and marine conservation represent a unique blend of innovation, education, and environmental advocacy. Through Neptune's Submerge and Apnea Zone, he has created platforms that push the limits of immersive technology and serve as powerful tools for raising awareness about the importance of protecting our oceans. His collaborations with universities and industry leaders have enabled him to bring these ideas to life, offering new ways for people to experience and engage with the underwater world. Ounah's vision for the future is one where technology and conservation go hand in hand, ensuring that the beauty and diversity of the ocean are preserved for generations to come.
Camilo Wood

Camilo Wood

Author
Camilo Wood has over two decades of experience as a writer and journalist, specializing in finance and economics. With a degree in Economics and a background in financial research and analysis, Camilo brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his writing. Throughout his career, Camilo has contributed to numerous publications, covering a wide range of topics such as global economic trends, investment strategies, and market analysis. His articles are recognized for their insightful analysis and clear explanations, making complex financial concepts accessible to readers. Camilo's experience includes working in roles related to financial reporting, analysis, and commentary, allowing him to provide readers with accurate and trustworthy information. His dedication to journalistic integrity and commitment to delivering high-quality content make him a trusted voice in the fields of finance and journalism.
Dexter Cooke

Dexter Cooke

Reviewer
Dexter Cooke is an economist, marketing strategist, and orthopedic surgeon with over 20 years of experience crafting compelling narratives that resonate worldwide. He holds a Journalism degree from Columbia University, an Economics background from Yale University, and a medical degree with a postdoctoral fellowship in orthopedic medicine from the Medical University of South Carolina. Dexter’s insights into media, economics, and marketing shine through his prolific contributions to respected publications and advisory roles for influential organizations. As an orthopedic surgeon specializing in minimally invasive knee replacement surgery and laparoscopic procedures, Dexter prioritizes patient care above all. Outside his professional pursuits, Dexter enjoys collecting vintage watches, studying ancient civilizations, learning about astronomy, and participating in charity runs.
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