Hobbies And Interests
Conservation of the Underwater World
Jacques Cousteau's discoveries were centered on the intricate balance between marine life and the health of the ecological environment. Cousteau's advances in diving and underwater photography equipment allowed the world to see depths of the oceans, which were a complete mystery until this time. Cousteau's discoveries are recorded in his films and books, and include many plants and animals that had never been seen before. All of Cousteau's discoveries were presented to the public with the aim of environmental conservation. Among many notable environmental awards given to Cousteau, he was awarded the UN Environmental National Prize in 1977.
Scuba-Diving Innovation
Cousteau invented the aqualung with Emile Gagnan; the aqualung blazed the trail for scuba diving. The invention of the aqualung allowed camera operators to remain submerged in greater depths for longer periods of time than ever before; this allowed discoveries of oceanic life, which were never possible before. Cousteau also made various improvements to diving gear, including the diving bell, in order to support underwater diving at the greater depths achieved with the new aqualung. These innovations primarily opened the door for underwater filming and discoveries.
A View of the Marine World
Jacques Cousteau made several innovations to underwater photography equipment. Cousteau made adjustments to waterproof camera casings, lighting equipment and an underwater sea scooter, which enabled viewers to witness his underwater discoveries right along with him. Cousteau also innovated the small, two-person underwater boat known as a bathyscaphe. The bathyscaphe allowed visitors and film and television viewers to see far greater oceanic depths than were ever possible with mere scuba diving. Cousteau's innovations to marine diving equipment improved the examination of underwater environments for profession and sport.
Public Awareness and the Underwater Documentary
Jacques Cousteau essentially began the documentary of the aquatic life. Cousteau was involved in a tireless effort to prove the importance of maintaining the health of the world's marine world. Cousteau raised public awareness of pollution in the oceans and the effects it could have on marine life. For these films and books, which were designed to campaign environmental protection, Cousteau won several awards including National Geographic's Gold Medal in 1960, the U.S. Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1985 and he was also inducted into the Television Academy's Hall of Fame.