Born January 23, 1919 in Vienna, Hans Hass first encountered
the underwater world of the Mediterranean Sea in July 1937 during a vacation to the South of
France.
His significant achievements and advances have made him a pioneer for both scuba divers and
the environment of the ocean. His
many books and films have influenced many of the underwater filmmakers and photographers
of today. You can also learn more about Hans Hass from an interview published by
Asian Diver MagazineOR read Michael Jung's HANS HASS: Pioneer of Swim Diving
In January, at DEMA (Dive Equipment Manufacturer's Association) 1999 Convention held in
New Orleans Dr. Hans Hass was awarded two NOGI Awards, by The Academy of Underwater Arts and Sciences.
A group of "fellows" who pioneered underwater exploration. Dr. Hass one Award for Distinguished
Service and the other for his contributions to Science. Leslie Leaney (Historical Diving Society President) and
Julianne Ziefle (Director Special Projects, Academy of Underwater Arts and Sciences) received the awards on Dr. Hass
behalf.
Three days later they traveled to Dusseldorf, Germany, to the "BOOT" Show (World's Largest Retail Watersports
Show) where an ostentatious celebration took place in honor of Hans Hass 80th Birthday. A Wonderful message was delivery by Jean-Michel Cousteau via
broadcast media. The Two NOGI were presented and Dr. Hass was delighted that the American's had
come to honor his 80th Birthday with two Awards.
Michael Jung, leading expert on the history of
diving technology and who wrote the original authorized biography on Dr. Hans Hass will publish the
second reprint in America to be ready for the year 2000.
Hypercell Organisms: A New Perspective of Man In EvolutionBe sure to check
here for the Hans Hass Institute Site at www.hanshass.org (still in development)
