A race against time is underway as search and rescue teams strive to locate a tourist submarine that has gone missing in the vast expanse of the North Atlantic. The submersible was exploring the historic wreck of the Titanic when contact was abruptly lost, leaving its fate shrouded in uncertainty.
The United States Coast Guard revealed that the small submarine, carrying five individuals, had the capacity to remain submerged for 96 hours. However, it remained unclear whether the vessel was still underwater or had resurfaced but was unable to establish communication.
The missing sub, named the Titan, is a remarkable carbon fibre and titanium craft designed specifically for deep-sea exploration, particularly of the Titanic wreck. Among those presumed to be onboard are a British explorer and a French military veteran renowned for their expertise in submarines.
Extensive search efforts are underway in the vicinity of the Titanic wreck, with US and Canadian ships and planes combing the area. The challenge lies in the complex nature of the search, as the submersible’s whereabouts remain unknown.
The teams must meticulously scour both the ocean depths of nearly 13,000 feet and the surface, covering approximately 1,450 kilometres east of Cape Cod.
As the search continues, there is mounting concern about the oxygen supply onboard the submersible, which commenced at approximately 6 am on Sunday. Efforts are being made to expedite the arrival of a remotely operated vehicle capable of reaching the site at a depth of 6,000 meters.
The jurisdiction for the search falls under the responsibility of the US Coast Guard’s Boston fleet, despite the Titanic wreck resting southeast of the coast of Newfoundland, Canada.
OceanGate Expeditions, the company organizing visits to the wreck, has expressed gratitude for the support received from government agencies and deep-sea companies. Their primary focus remains on the safety and well-being of the crew members and their families.
Who all are missing from it?
On board, the vessel are notable passengers such as British businessman Hamish Harding, Pakistani businessman Shahzada Dawood and his son, French explorer Paul-Henri Nargeolet, and Stockton Rush, the CEO of OceanGate.
Harding is known as the chairman of Action Aviation, a company specializing in aircraft sales to prominent clients. Dawood, the vice chairman of Dawood Hercules, comes from a renowned family business in Pakistan. Nargeolet is an expert on the Titanic, having led multiple expeditions to its wreckage site.
Rush, in addition to being the CEO, serves as the pilot for the missing Titan expedition. Each individual brings unique experiences and expertise to the voyage, contributing to its significance.
What is a submersible?
A submersible, also known as a submarine or a sub, is a type of underwater vessel designed to operate and navigate beneath the surface of the water.
It is capable of submerging and resurfacing as needed. Submersibles can be manned, carrying people inside, or unmanned operated remotely or autonomously.
These vessels are typically constructed with strong, watertight hulls that enable them to withstand the immense pressure exerted by the water at varying depths.
They are equipped with propulsion systems, usually in the form of thrusters or propellers, to facilitate movement and manoeuvrability underwater. Submersibles may also feature advanced navigation and communication systems, life support systems, and specialized equipment for scientific research, exploration, or military purposes.
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