The Maldives is a country literally built on coral. Reefs rise from the tops of sunken volcanoes to form stunning atolls. The surrounding reefs provide protection from the increasing frequency and intensity of storms caused by climate destabilisation. Deploying a Seaeye Falcon ROV, named Pytheas after the Greek explorer and geographer, we’re mapping and documenting the health and resilience of these reefs for the first time, leading to their protection. Surging currents and sheer cliffs, even in the shallows, makes this one of the most challenging operations on the Mission.