The implosion of Titan, the OceanGate submersible that was attempting to visit RMS Titanic’s wreckage in the North Atlantic last June 18, caught the world’s attention and has prompted a lively international, multidisciplinary debate over the regulation and inspection of these now-controversial vehicles. An informal panel will discuss such topics as legal and regulatory proposals; the history of submersibles; the current status and trends in regulation; inspection requirements (or absence thereof); access to wrecks and other undersea attractions; extreme tourism, including Antarctica and outer space; and counterarguments against regulation. An open discussion will include the audience.
Business meeting at program conclusion.