First Excursion Beyond the Lab

Israel is a mecca of natural wonders.  Yesterday we explored one of them, the coral reef near the research station.  There are many ways to experience the reef, snorkeling, scuba diving, and glass bottom boats are all options.  However, on this day we opted for the underwater observatory located right next to the IUI labs.  The observatory is somewhat like a small aquarium combined with a viewing platform.  We got in for free to the observatory with our newly issued IUI id cards. 

From left to right Joe, Chia-Te, Ana, Kyle, and Adina check out an exhibit at the underwater observatory.

The observatory on land includes exhibits of fish, turtles, coral reefs, and fish.

Ana and Joe check out one of the larger tanks at the observatory.

Giant sea turtles can be seen at the observatory.

However, what makes the observatory unique is the viewing platform.  On the end of a pier is a round building hovering above the water that resembles a flying saucer.  Advertisements of this building can be seen all over Eilat.

The art deco style flying saucer at the end of the pier.  Below it is the viewing platform.

An enclosed staircase extends from the bottom of the flying saucer beneath the water to a similarly shaped pair of buildings resting on the ocean floor.  Windows on the exterior allow patrons to view the coral reef up close without getting their hair wet. 

 

Patrons inside the underwater viewing platform

Looking out one of the viewing platform windows at the abundance of fish and coral.  Several fish can be found hiding in the coral recesses of this photo. 

The observatory was definitively tourist-trapy, but it was a fun way to spend 90 minutes at the end of our work week.