A remotely operated vehicle captured an image of the shattered tail cone of OceanGate’s Titan submersible, providing the first evidence of the sub and its crew being lost in the North Atlantic. The crew’s last words before the fatal dive to the Titanic shipwreck were transmitted by veteran explorer P.H. Nargeolet, indicating that all was well just moments before the sub imploded under pressure. The crew members who perished included Stockton Rush, Hamish Harding, Shahzada Dawood, and his son Suleman.
During a public hearing held by the U.S. Coast Guard, it was revealed that Titan experienced multiple communication and equipment issues during the expedition to the Titanic site. Investigations showed that the submersible had been stored without protection from the elements, was towed during the journey, and faced various challenges during expeditions in 2021 and 2022. Problems with communication and equipment failures were documented throughout the missions, leading to concerns about the safety of the submersible.
The hearing’s first witness, Tony Nissen, OceanGate’s former director of engineering, discussed concerns over rushed development schedules and quality issues with the submersible. Nissen voiced his worries about the fabrication of the carbon-composite hull and was ultimately terminated after refusing to sign off on the hull due to a crack discovered after test dives in 2019. He highlighted the lack of procedures for retesting the hull or regular replacements, as well as concerns about the operations crew’s competence.
Evidence provided during the hearing showcased financial challenges within OceanGate, with payments from mission specialists going directly into the company’s funds. The tight financial situation led to concerns about safety and issues with company practices, including the dismissal of employees who raised concerns. Experts on submersibles noted that there were no red flags on the day of the fatal dive, but highlighted the need for improved training and operations standards, especially in preparation for complex expeditions in challenging environments.
OceanGate has suspended all operations and reportedly has no full-time employees currently. The company was represented at the hearing by a team of lawyers who reviewed exhibits and questioned witnesses. The hearing revealed significant challenges faced by the company in developing and operating the Titan submersible, leading to concerns about safety procedures and operational practices. The investigation into the tragic events surrounding the loss of the sub and its crew continues, shedding light on the complexities of deep-sea exploration and the importance of safety and preparedness in such endeavors.
