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JUNIOR SCIENTISTS IN THE SEA Join Blue Planet and the JSIS DC chapter for incredible dive training and opportunities!

Junior Scientists in the Sea: DC Chapter

Blue Planet is proud to host the Washington, DC chapter for Junior Scientists in the Sea, a nonprofit STEAM program that introduces the brave and curious to the wonders of the underwater world. Kids can learn about marine biology and marine archaeology, expand their dive training with advanced courses and try their hand at photography, videography, using ROVs and drones! 

Jr. Marine Scientists Wanted!


A young diver conducts a survey underwaterBlue Planet Scuba in Washington, D.C. has formed the newest chapter of Jr. Scientists in the Sea. Anyone over the age of 10 can join us as we take STEAM education underwater!

What Will I Do?

Learn about the importance of coral reefs by scuba diving to actually restore coral reefs! Dive in a local aquarium to understand marine animal care and habitats. Map and study shipwrecks and historic sites to explore underwater archeology. Become an underwater videographer or photographer. Use remote operated vehicles (ROVs) in the sea and drones up above to assist divers below. And so much more! Dream it, then do it.

How To Start?

Join the club! First, you’ll become a PADI certified scuba diver. From there you’ll learn fish identification, perfecting buoyancy, dive against debris (DAD), navigation and more. Take your diving to the next level with advanced certification and specialty courses you’re interested in, like diving in a full-face mask or breathing Nitrox instead of air to make your dives safer and longer. It’s all part of the process of becoming a scientific diver.

A student monitors divers underwater at a siteWhat’s a Scientific Diver?

Scientific divers use the scientific method to research our changing planet and explore ways to preserve and restore underwater habitats and history. They build their careers by combining their passion for science with the thrill of scuba diving. 

What’s the cost?

Members pay $100/month, which covers the cost of pool sessions and many specialized classes. Basic Open Water certification is not included, but JSIS members get PADI Club membership, giving them discounts on all eLearning.

What about equipment?

Club members get free gear rental for pool and lake dives. As you get more involved with the program you may want your own gear, and Blue Planet offers discounts to club members.

Students look through a microscopeWhat’s JSIS?

JSIS is a national STEAM program that introduces the brave and curious to the wonders of the underwater. It is a member of the American Academy of Underwater Sciences (AAUS), allowing it to partner with aquariums and colleges nationwide. JSIS operates through local chapters in the U.S., with a chapter in St. Croix, USVI.

Sign up now!

We're putting together our 2024-2025 school year program now. Contact us for more information!