A budget cut scare caused an alarm that UNCW’s underwater research lab, Aquarius, would be shut down. The programs responsible for running Aquarius, the only research lab of its kind in the world, have experienced budget cuts this fiscal year. The National Undersea Research Program saw its budget fall from $13.5 million to $12 million. President Bush proposed a budget that recommended cutting an additional $1 million, according to a press release. Aquarius receives approximately $1.3 million that covers operating and maintenance costs. Grants, institutions and researchers cover most of the mission expenses. UNCW manages the 400-square-foot capsule anchored 63 feet below the surface of Key Largo, Fla. The federal government funds its operation. NURP director Barbara Moore said the agency considered cutting its money for the lab this year, but continued the program. The agency’s normal operation budget does not keep up with inflation, making it almost impossible for it to continue to run unless changes in the budget are made. Steven Miller, director of the National Undersea Research Center (NURC) said, “Funding for Aquarius is from NOAA and some other partners. The program depends on this funding and if the budget is cut in a substantial manner the program would likely end, but we are in no way anywhere near that point this year.” Aquarius has received its budget for 2004 and there were no cuts. “The future of the program depends on continued funding but equally important is the need to make sure our science projects are of the highest scientific merit and relevance to NOAA. We also think it’s important to conduct education and outreach programs so we can explain the science we support and why it’s important,” Miller said. NASA astronauts have used the lab for training for several years to help them prepare for the rigors of space travel, at times spending a week or longer. NASA project manager Bill Todd said, “It also allows the crew to go on a real mission in a real environment and work with real scientists doing real work, just like they would in a space station,” according to the press release. Astronauts are not the only ones who want to continue to see Aquarius. UNCW student and special education major Jennifer Farmer said, “There is a whole other [underwater] world that we have very little knowledge about, and it’s sad that we may never know more than we already do.” Aquarius was built in 1986 but has been refurbished twice before its launch. Miller said that there are advantages to longevity and the fact that Aquarius has been in the Florida Keys so long makes it more valuable. “Having the world’s only undersea laboratory as an extension of our program is great for our researchers and students and good exposure for our institution,” sad Mark Lanier, assistant to Chancellor Rosemary DePaolo.