Inside Edition

Alvin pilot Mark Spear conducts show-and-tell for new crew members as they sit inside the Alvin submersible, which was housed in its hangar on the research vessel Atlantis for an evening in December 2006. Spear and other pilots interview their passengers prior to descent, explaining procedures and protocol and addressing questions and concerns. He reassures the claustrophobic and counsels the weak bladdered with a calm demeanor and authoritative voice. (Photo by Lance Wills, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution)