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Significant Breakthrough in Search for Missing Titanic Submarine: Periodic Noises Detected at 30-Minute Intervals

The global community anxiously awaits updates on the ongoing search for the Titan submersible, which disappeared on Sunday during its mission to explore the depths of the Titanic wreckage.

Despite the impending depletion of the crew’s oxygen supply today (June 22), relentless efforts are underway to locate the vessel before time runs out. Aerial reconnaissance is being conducted by aircraft, while underwater vehicles diligently scour the vast search area, estimated to be twice the size of Connecticut. Regrettably, no communication has been established with the submersible since it lost contact a mere one hour and forty-five minutes into its dive.

Nevertheless, a glimmer of hope emerges as a rescue team member reports intermittent banging sounds occurring every 30 minutes in the vicinity where the submersible disappeared.

The Titan submersible, operated by OceanGate Expeditions to explore the wreckage of the sunken SS Titanic off the coast of Newfoundland, dives in an undated photograph. OceanGate Expeditions/Handout via REUTERS

In a published email from the Department of Homeland Security, it was revealed that RCC Halifax launched a P8 Poseidon aircraft equipped with underwater detection capabilities to aid in the search efforts. The P8 successfully deployed sonobuoys, which detected a contact near the distress location. Notably, the aircraft crew reported hearing banging sounds occurring every 30 minutes in the area. Several hours later, additional sonar was deployed, and the banging noises persisted.

It is important to note that it remains uncertain whether the banging sounds originate from the five trapped crew members aboard the Titan submersible. However, a subsequent email from CNN seemed to heighten the sense of optimism. The email mentioned that further acoustic feedback was detected, providing valuable guidance for surface assets and indicating the potential presence of survivors, thereby sustaining hope in the ongoing rescue operation.

According to the U.S. Coast Guard, it has been projected that the submersible’s oxygen supply will be exhausted by 6:08 a.m. (7:08 a.m. ET) on Thursday. Considering the potential duration of up to eight hours for the return trip to the surface, every passing minute becomes increasingly crucial in defying the odds.

The passengers aboard the submersible have been identified as Hamish Harding, Stockton Rush, Paul-Henry Nargeolet, Shahzada Dawood, and his son Sulaiman.

 

OceanGate, the company responsible for facilitating the tourists’ visit to the Titanic wreck, released a statement emphasizing their unwavering focus on the well-being of the crew members within the submersible and their families. As the rescue effort intensifies, their utmost priority remains ensuring the safety and support of those involved.

In this critical hour, our collective thoughts and prayers are extended to the five individuals currently trapped onboard the Titan submersible. We come together, sharing a common wish for a miraculous outcome. Let us join forces in fervent prayer, uniting our hopes and aspirations for their safe rescue. May a miracle grace their path and bring them back to safety.