Sylvia Earle
1935– · American (New Jersey) · Modern Era
Known for: Her Deepness—most famous living oceanographer, set women's depth records, led 100+ expeditions, and tirelessly fights for ocean conservation
Earle has spent over 7,000 hours underwater, led the first all-female aquanaut team, set the record for deepest untethered walk on the ocean floor, and served as NOAA's chief scientist. She founded Mission Blue to establish marine protected areas.
At 90, she continues diving and speaking. Her argument is simple and devastating: 'No water, no life. No blue, no green.' She has been called a living legend by the Library of Congress.
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