21-6-2023 (NORTH ATLANTIC) Sonar equipment deployed in the North Atlantic Ocean picked up banging sounds on Tuesday, as the search for a submersible with five people onboard continues. The submersible went missing two days prior during a dive to explore the Titanic wreckage, according to an internal US government memo obtained by CNN.
Details regarding the timing and duration of the banging sounds remain unclear, as stated in the memo. However, a subsequent update on Tuesday night indicated that additional acoustic feedback was heard, providing hope for the presence of survivors and aiding in directing surface assets.
In addition to the acoustic feedback, a Canadian P3 aircraft spotted a white rectangular object in the water, prompting plans for investigation. However, the ship designated for the task was redirected to assist in analyzing the acoustic feedback.
When reached for comment, OceanGate, the operator of the submersible, stated that they have no information to share. CNN has reached out to the US Coast Guard in Boston and Canadian authorities for further comments.
As the search enters its third day, the multinational effort to locate the submersible and its occupants intensifies. More ships and aircraft have joined the rescue mission, including subject matter experts and a “Flyaway Deep Ocean Salvage System” from the US Navy. This system is capable of lifting and recovering large undersea objects, such as the missing submersible.
The equipment and personnel are expected to arrive at St. John’s, Newfoundland, by Tuesday night. The US Coast Guard and the Royal Canadian Air Force are also deploying additional aircraft and vessels to aid in the search. The search operation now involves a Canadian pipe-laying vessel with underwater capabilities, along with other assets.
The submersible, named “Titan,” was carrying one pilot and four mission specialists when it lost contact with its mother ship during its descent. Measuring approximately 21 feet in length, the minivan-sized submersible is equipped with repurposed everyday items, including a video game controller for steering.
Authorities have emphasized the importance of sonar equipment in detecting sounds underwater, given the potential depth of the submersible. The vessel is equipped with 96 hours of life support at the beginning of each trip, according to OceanGate Expeditions.
Finding the submersible remains the primary challenge, followed by the intricate task of bringing it to the surface and rescuing the crew. The ongoing international search and rescue operation involves experts from multiple nations, who are employing their expertise in a complex and challenging effort.
US Coast Guard Captain Jamie Frederick acknowledged the limited time available, estimating the submersible to have around 40 hours of oxygen remaining. Despite the time constraints, Frederick assured that every possible measure will be taken to effect a rescue.
