A submersible carrying a crew of five has gone missing in the Atlantic Ocean while on an expedition to the wreck of the Titanic.
The submersible, a Titan operated by OceanGate Expeditions, was last in contact with the company on Monday morning, June 19, 2023, at approximately 10:00 AM EDT. It is believed to be at a depth of 3,800 meters (12,500 feet).
OceanGate said it is working with the United States Coast Guard, the Canadian Coast Guard, and other government agencies to try to locate the submersible and its crew. The company is also working with deep sea firms such as Global Diving & Salvage and Ocean Infinity to provide additional resources and expertise.
The Titan is a carbon-fiber submersible that can carry up to five people. It is equipped with a variety of sensors and cameras, allowing passengers to explore the Titanic wreck in real time. The submersible has a four-day supply of oxygen, so it is possible that the crew is still alive.
The Titanic sank in 1912 after striking an iceberg. The wreck lies about 600 kilometers (370 miles) off the coast of Newfoundland, Canada. It has been extensively explored since it was discovered in 1985.
The search for the missing submersible is ongoing. The Coast Guard has deployed a C-130 Hercules aircraft and a helicopter to the area, and it is also using ships and boats to search the water.
OceanGate said it is "deeply concerned" about the crew and is "doing everything we can to find them." The company said it is providing support to the crew's families and friends.
The search for the missing submersible is a challenging one. The water at the depth of the Titanic wreck is very cold and dark, and there are strong currents. However, the Coast Guard and other agencies are confident that they will be able to find the submersible and its crew.
"We are hopeful that we will be able to locate the submersible and bring the crew home safely," said Capt. Brian Penoyer, the commander of the Coast Guard's 1st District. "We are working tirelessly to find them."
The search for the missing submersible is a reminder of the dangers of exploring the deep ocean. However, it is also a testament to the determination of those who search for those who are lost.