Scientific Dive
A dive conducted in accordance with AAUS regulations for scientific, research, or educational purposes, where the diver's sole intent is to complete scientific research tasks. Scientific diving does not include tasks typically associated with commercial diving, such as construction, demolition, cutting, welding, or using explosives.
Air Dive
A dive in which divers breathe compressed air from an independent dive system.
Nitrox Dive
A dive in which divers breathe oxygen-enriched air. Nitrox dives are to be conducted only by divers certified as Nitrox divers.
Technical Dive
A dive that exceeds the typical depth and time limits of sport diving, often involving varying gas mixtures and usually requiring decompression stops. Technical dives can only be performed by certified technical divers using appropriate equipment. Planning and execution will be done under the close supervision of the DSO.
Closed-Circuit Rebreather Dive
A dive utilizing a closed-circuit rebreathing system, including an oxygen cylinder and a diluent cylinder containing a gas mixture appropriate for the dive profile. Such dives will only be conducted by divers certified for the intended closed-circuit rebreather system, and planning and execution will be closely supervised by the DSO.