Larry Connor, the founder of Dayton, Ohio-based real estate investment firm the Connor Group, has an impressive track record of extreme adventures over the past few years. From traveling to space to breaking world records for skydiving, Connor has recently announced his latest mission: an expedition to the shipwreck of the Titanic, which now lies at a depth of 12,500 feet below sea level. This expedition, estimated to cost between $13 million and $15 million, will involve the development of a new submersible in a joint venture with Triton Submarines, with a planned launch date for the summer of 2026.
Connor, worth an estimated $2 billion, aims to emphasize the importance of research and exploration in the oceans, particularly in the North Atlantic area where the Titanic lies. He plans to conduct multiple research dives to explore hydrothermal vents and seamounts in the region, which have seen limited scientific research. Connor will copilot the submersible alongside Patrick Lahey, Triton’s cofounder and CEO, who aims to conduct scientific research at the Titanic site. The expedition will also focus on building the Explorer, a two-seater sub with a transparent, 18-inch-thick acrylic hull and powered by a battery similar to those used in electric cars.
The impetus for this expedition came after the deadly OceanGate disaster in which five passengers died when their submersible collapsed on the way to the Titanic site. Connor had previously been approached by OceanGate for a potential dive to the Titanic but had declined due to safety concerns. After discussing the incident with Lahey, the two started working on a joint venture to develop a safe and reliable submersible for the expedition. The Explorer, like all Triton subs, will undergo rigorous testing by DNV, a Dutch certification firm, to ensure safety and operational effectiveness.
Connor, who made his fortune with the Connor Group’s $5 billion real estate portfolio, is known for his interest in extreme pursuits and adventures. He seeks to combine challenge and purpose in all his endeavors, ensuring that practical research and safety are paramount. Before becoming one of the world’s first commercial astronauts, Connor spent over 700 hours training with NASA, and he plans to become certified as a submersible pilot for the Titanic expedition. Looking ahead, Connor expresses interest in returning to the International Space Station for further research opportunities after the Titanic dive.
Overall, the Titanic expedition is about more than just exploring a historic shipwreck—it aims to further scientific research and technological advancements in deep-sea exploration. Connor and Lahey hope to shed light on the mysteries of the deep ocean, including unexplored seamounts that harbor unique ecosystems. Despite the risks involved in such extreme adventures, Connor emphasizes his commitment to safety and success, ensuring that every step is taken to mitigate potential dangers. Through this expedition, Connor and his team hope to inspire others to approach ocean exploration with caution and respect for the power of the seas.
