In 2021 I was Artist-At-Sea aboard the R/V FALKOR, an oceanographic research vessel operated by Schmidt Ocean Institute. I observed this Ctenophore in real time via FALKOR'S Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) SuBastian during a dive to San Juan Sea Mount at 1450 meters (4757 feet, a depth of nearly one mile.)

This beautiful Ctenophore appears as a starry galaxy floating in a vast space. Although commonly known as Comb Jelly, Ctenophore is not actually related to jellyfish. Approximately 200 species have been discovered thus far, but a new research methodology called Environmental DNA may permit the identification of as many as 800 new species. Most are bioluminescent, often translucent, shimmering or iridescent.