The Book *Depths and Obsessions*

The Depths and Obsessions – Pavel Gross

A gripping story of the first Czech aquanaut, inventor, and submarine designer. The book Depths and Obsessions by Pavel Gross is an autobiographical account of a fascination with the underwater world, adventures, technical inventions, and the life journey of a man who was literally captivated by the depths.

The story begins in the 1950s and 1960s, when a group of young friends discovers the magic of flooded quarries and embarks on their first diving expeditions. From their initial enthusiasm and youthful thirst for adventure, a lifelong passion for the underwater world and technology gradually develops.

The author describes his journey from his first diving experiences to the construction of underwater devices. One of the most remarkable experiences is his stay in an underwater chamber that he designed and built himself. He spent three days and three nights alone in it on the ocean floor.

The narrative continues with authentic recollections of the world of inventors of underwater machines, oceanographers, coral hunters, and other adventurers. It features technical innovations, incredible stories, humor, and friendship, as well as moments of uncertainty and fear. The new edition includes QR codes with excerpts from the feature-length documentary Akvanaut Pavel Gross.

Why read this book?

• An authentic autobiographical account by a prominent figure in Czech diving.
• Adventurous stories from the early days of diving in Czechoslovakia.
• A fascinating glimpse into the world of underwater structures and technical inventions.
• The story of the construction of and life in an underwater cabin.
• Memories of diving expeditions, oceanography, and life beneath the surface.
• New edition featuring QR codes with excerpts from a documentary film.

About the Author

Pavel Gross, also known as Matto, is a Czech diver, engineer, inventor, and author. For much of his life, he has devoted himself to diving, underwater technology, and nuclear engineering. His personal recollections offer a unique perspective on the evolution of diving and the adventures of people who have decided to explore the world beneath the surface.

The Depths and Obsessions is an excellent choice for divers, lovers of the underwater world, technology enthusiasts, and fans of adventurous autobiographical stories. It is a book that shows just how far a fascination with the underwater world can take a person.