In a groundbreaking underwater adventure, researchers from the Schmidt Ocean Institute have captured the first-ever footage of a juvenile colossal squid, who was evidently not prepared for its close-up, off the South Sandwich Islands.

This historic breakthrough marks the first time scientists have filmed a colossal squid in its natural habitat, offering a glimpse into the secrets of the deep sea nearly a century after the species was first identified. The juvenile squid, measuring a modest 30 cm, captured by the Schmidt Ocean Institute's ROV SuBastian at a depth of 600 meters, comes as a shocking reminder that even the ocean's most elusive residents can have an awkward on-screen moment when you least expect it.

The Schmidt Ocean Institute's expedition, which lasted an impressive 35 days, aimed to uncover new forms of marine life lurking beneath the waves. Participants from diverse organizations, including researchers from the University of Plymouth and the British Antarctic Survey, dedicated their time to exploring the mysterious depths of the ocean. Little did they know, they would capture the first in situ footage of a juvenile colossal squid that prefers to blend into the background of the abyss.

Colossal squid can reach lengths of up to 7 meters and weigh as much as 500 kg, which might suggest that their personalities are as large as their size. However, the juvenile filmed this time around was a mere 30 cm long, making it more of a baby step than a giant leap into the spotlight. Yet, as experts pointed out, it’s rather rare to encounter these creatures without unraveling them from the stomachs of whales or seabirds. A situation that seems to suggest that the squid have a knack for playing a game of hide and seek, where they always seem to lose.

Dr. Kat Bolstad was among the experts who assisted in verifying the authenticity of the footage, making sure the juvenile didn't just slip in from a Hollywood production. According to Bolstad and her fellow researchers, this landmark sighting serves as more than just great camera work; it’s a testimony to the ongoing mysteries of marine biology and the enchanting surprises it holds.

Historically, colossal squid have been something of a marine cryptid, known more for their elusive nature than actual sightings. The footage this research team managed to capture serves as a whimsical reminder that while we’ve come a long way in understanding these magnificent beasts, they still manage to keep their secrets close to their tentacles. This also means that wannabe marine biologists can stop relying solely on 'squid belly' as evidence of their existence.

The expedition gathered not just a glimpse into the life of a squid but also led to the discovery of other squid species, which had the researchers doling out high-fives as they basked in their aquatic achievements. One can only imagine the conversations had in the ROV about their newfound companions. Sure, we found a squid—what else do we have? A school of small fish? Yawn.

As they shared their experiences, researchers could barely contain their excitement. They spoke of unforgettable moments that reminded them of the ocean's mystique. Although it remains unclear if they were referring to the spectacular marine life or merely the intimacy of sharing cramped quarters inside the submersible, it undoubtedly would have made for a compelling reality show.

This sighting not only unwinds a fascinating chapter in the colossal squid saga but arrives a full 100 years after the species was first identified. It’s almost as if the squid has taken its time for a debut, waiting for the perfect moment when technology and marine biology intersected in a magical underwater flirtation. Perhaps in another century, we’ll witness them doing ballet on the ocean floor, performing for cheering crowds of krill and coffee-colored halibut.

Ultimately, the expedition by the Schmidt Ocean Institute illustrates that we still have a lot to learn about our watery neighbors. The colossal squid, it seems, wants to remind us that sometimes a video camera 2000 feet underwater is just what you need to catch unexpected, albeit brief, glimpses of wonder lurking in the depths. In the grand scheme of aquatic things, we’ll take what we can get—awkward moments and all.