KEY LARGO, Fla. (AP) - A 31-day stay in an underwater research laboratory in the Florida Keys by ocean explorer Jacques Cousteau's grandson has been postponed until the spring.
Fabien Cousteau had planned to dive to Aquarius Reef Base next month with a team of filmmakers and scientists. They planned to spend 31 days below the ocean's surface, testing experimental equipment and conducting research on the underwater effects of climate change.
Cousteau's privately funded "Mission 31" now is planned for the spring. In a statement last week, Cousteau said the 16-day, partial shutdown of the U.S. government delayed film and science permits the mission requires.
Aquarius sits about 60 feet below the ocean's surface in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. It's owned by the U.S. government and managed by Florida International University.
