In a recently released series of images, deep diver and National Geographic underwater photographer Laurent Ballesta completed the deepest dives ever under Antarctic ice to photograph the animals that live there. The deepest of the dives reached 230-feet, where the colors, numbers and types of creatures was the highest. At temperatures below 29 degrees fahrenheit, and dives lasting up to five-hours, it took Ballesta a full seven-months for his nerves to recover from the trauma.

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Temporary suction-cupped cameras are giving National Geographic researchers a “whale’s eye view” into exactly what humpback whales are doing under Antarctica, and some of it is brand new information. The cameras automatically release after 24 to 48 hours, so the filming is limited, but already there are a few surprises. The whales are feeding much deeper than expected as well as using their blow-holes to break up sea ice to breathe.

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