A global fleet of ships and aeroplanes engaged in a time-sensitive operation on the open waters, as they searched for a missing submersible carrying five individuals on a mission to explore the wreckage of the Titanic in the North Atlantic, as reported by AP News.
Extensive search
The U.S. Coast Guard conducted an extensive search covering 10,000 square miles (26,000 square kilometres) but found no trace of the missing submarine named Titan. Despite ongoing search efforts, time was running out as the vessel had less than two days’ worth of oxygen remaining if it was still intact and operational. A spokesperson emphasized the complexity of the search and the continuous efforts of the unified team. An underwater robot was deployed near the Titanic’s location, and salvage equipment was being prepared in case the submarine is located. The U.S. military provided assistance by transporting submersibles and support equipment, while the Canadian military contributed a patrol aircraft and two surface ships, including one specialized in dive medicine.
Locating vessel
A search operation was initiated after a carbon-fibre vessel named Titan, led by CEO Stockton Rush and carrying British adventurer Hamish Harding, two members of a Pakistani business family, and a Titanic expert, was reported overdue. The submersible had a four-day oxygen supply when it departed on Sunday but lost communication about an hour and 45 minutes after submerging. The sudden loss of communication suggests a loss of power or a catastrophic hull breach. Despite having seven backup systems, including inflatable balloons and lead pipes, the situation appears grim. Efforts to locate the vessel are ongoing.
Lost communications
According to Eric Fusil, director of the University of Adelaide’s Shipbuilding Hub, there are alternative explanations for the loss of communication, such as an electrical fire that could have produced toxic fumes and incapacitated the crew. Fusil also mentioned the possibility that the Titan might have become entangled in the wreckage of the Titanic. Despite these concerns, Fusil expressed hope that the vessel experienced a power loss but could still resurface and be spotted by aircraft and ships. However, experts acknowledge the significant challenges faced by rescuers. Alistair Greig, a professor of marine engineering at University College London, explained that submersibles typically have a drop weight that can be released in emergencies to bring them to the surface.
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Source: AP News
