RMS Titanic, Inc., the designated salvor-in-possession of the RMS Titanic, has unveiled captivating images and discoveries from its latest Imaging and Research Expedition. The expedition, conducted in 2024, reveals a poignant blend of preservation and the relentless march of time on the iconic ship. The company has shared these findings, which evoke both celebration and sorrow, inviting the public to explore the ongoing narrative of this maritime legend.
One of the expedition’s most exciting highlights is the rediscovery of the bronze statue “Diana of Versailles.” Last documented in 1986, this artifact was feared lost forever by many experts. Thanks to the dedicated work of RMS Titanic, Inc.’s researcher James Penca and the Expedition’s data scientists, this significant piece of art now has a clear, updated image. The rediscovery offers a glimmer of hope amidst the ongoing decay of the Titanic.
However, this triumph is tempered by a more somber finding: a large section of the railing surrounding the Bow’s forecastle deck has fallen from the port side prow, where it stood until 2022. This loss irrevocably alters one of Titanic’s most iconic and symbolic visuals, a stark reminder of the ongoing deterioration of the ship.
“RMS Titanic, Inc. is thrilled to share the first images and remarkable discoveries from our 2024 Expedition,” said RMS Titanic, Inc. Director of Collections Tomasina Ray. “The discovery of the statue of Diana was an exciting moment. But we are saddened by the loss of the iconic Bow railing and other evidence of decay which has only strengthened our commitment to preserving Titanic’s legacy.”
The team at RMS Titanic, Inc. dedicated 20 days at the wreck site, employing cutting-edge technology to capture over 2 million high-resolution images and videos. They also fully mapped the wreck and debris field using LiDAR, sonar, and a hyper magnetometer. This advanced approach aims to deepen our understanding of the Titanic’s historical significance and its fragile state.
The team is now meticulously processing the data to share findings with the Titanic and scientific communities and to identify historically significant and at-risk artifacts for safe recovery in future expeditions. This remarkable achievement was made possible by the tireless efforts of the Expedition team and partners, including C-Innovation, Marine Imaging Technologies, 3D at Depth, Ocean Floor Geophysics, Nine North, TR Launay, Inc., and TITANIC: HONOR and GLORY.
The Expedition’s discoveries will continue to bring the Titanic’s story to life for the millions who visit TITANIC: The Artifact Exhibition in Orlando and Las Vegas, as well as its touring exhibitions worldwide. Additionally, the findings will inspire the next generation of explorers through the company’s community educational resources, providing schools and students with materials that offer valuable interdisciplinary lessons in history, science, math, and technology. The ongoing exploration of the Titanic wreckage site underscores the importance of preserving history, while simultaneously showcasing the relentless power of nature to reshape even the most enduring structures.
