Yes, humans have reached the very bottom of the ocean floor.
Locating the Deepest Point
The deepest known point in the Earth's oceans is the Challenger Deep. This specific location is found at the southern end of the Mariana Trench, situated in the western Pacific Ocean. While vast areas of the ocean floor remain unexplored, the Challenger Deep is officially recognized as the deepest point.
The Historic First Human Touchdown
The first time humans successfully reached and touched the bottom of the Challenger Deep was a historic feat of engineering and exploration.
Based on the reference provided:
- The first manned descent occurred in 1960.
- The courageous individuals who made this journey were Jacques Piccard and Don Walsh.
- Their vessel for this incredible dive was the bathyscaphe Trieste.
This pioneering mission marked the first time any human submersible reached the absolute deepest point then known in the global ocean, effectively touching the "very bottom". Subsequent descents have been made since then, both manned and unmanned, further confirming human capability to reach these extreme depths.
Key Details of the First Descent
- Date: 1960
- Location: Challenger Deep, Mariana Trench, Western Pacific Ocean
- Crew: Jacques Piccard and Don Walsh
- Vehicle: Bathyscaphe Trieste
