The four-day international search for the submersible carrying Titanic tourists has come to an end, raising questions about the incident and the reasons behind it. OceanGate Expeditions, the operator of the submersible, touted its state-of-the-art design, which allowed for more undersea tourists than any other vessel of its kind. However, the unique design had not undergone thorough testing or certification by a third-party agency. OceanGate argued that the lengthy process would hinder innovation, but experts warned about the experimental nature of the craft and its potential risks.
Despite completing multiple trips to the Titanic since 2021, the Titan submersible had not undergone long-term tests to ensure the durability of its carbon-fiber hull and tube-shaped design. In 2018, industry leaders and experts expressed concerns about the company’s approach, calling it “experimental” and potentially misleading to the public. The submersible industry typically follows tried-and-tested designs, such as steel or titanium balls, to withstand extreme pressure. OceanGate’s deviation from these designs raised eyebrows among experts.
So why was the submersible allowed to operate? Unlike most thrill-seeking activities, such as space tourism or volcano exploration, the Titan submersible operated in international waters without specific regulations governing its operations. While certain tourist diving sites have rules, Canada, the departure point for diving to the Titanic, did not have any regulations in place for commercial submersibles.
The tragic incident has sparked discussions about the risks associated with such adventures and the responsibility of both operators and participants. Passengers aboard the Titan were required to sign waivers acknowledging the risks involved, but there may have been a lack of understanding about the seriousness of those risks. The presence of the company’s CEO on the ill-fated dive may have also given passengers a false sense of security.
Moving forward, experts emphasize the importance of rigorous questioning and thorough investigation by thrill-seekers before participating in high-risk activities. Additionally, society needs to consider the costs involved in rescue missions when individuals willingly take on these adventures. The recent search operation, estimated to be worth millions of dollars, is likely to result in claims for compensation against OceanGate from the private companies involved.
Overall, the incident highlights the need for proper regulation and safety measures in the submersible industry, as well as greater awareness and informed decision-making from those seeking daring experiences.
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