Mystic Aquarium

Washington, DC, Oct. 8, 2010 -- The JASON Project, an internationally recognized science program for middle-school students and an affiliate of National Geographic Society, today announced that Sea Research Foundation, Inc. has assumed management of its operation.

Founded in 1989 by oceanographer and explorer Dr. Robert D. Ballard, JASON has connected over 11 million students with scientists through classroom learning experiences and hands-on exploration. The non-profit organization, headquartered in Ashburn, Virginia, has been an affiliate of National Geographic since 2005. JASON announced earlier this year that it would transition to independence by the end of 2010.

Since May, Sea Research Foundation has been working collaboratively with key institutions in the Gulf region to assist with oil spill efforts. On July 7, people around the world can get up-to-date information on the oil spill from Sea Research staff and ask them questions during a live web panel discussion from 6 to 7 p.m.

For those who have ever wondered how – or why – trainers teach beluga whales various behaviors, Mystic Aquarium is now offering a way for guests to find out firsthand. Launching July 1, the new Train-A-Whale program offers a side-by-side, intimate learning experience with a trainer during a beluga whale feeding and training session.

Beginning today, guests at Mystic Aquarium and people on their computers at home can experience the next generation of deep ocean exploration. With the opening of the Nautilus Live Theater and launch of the Nautilus Live Web site (nautiluslive.org), people around the world can virtually join Sea Research Foundation’s Dr. Robert Ballard and his team aboard his new ship of exploration, the E/V Nautilus.