Further Explorations of the Titanic

A public lecture featuring Steven Schwankert FI'05 - Monday, April 14th at The Explorers Club Headquarters. On the evening of April 14—113 years after the Titanic struck the iceberg that sealed its fate—this presentation explores three areas of study worth continuing on the legendary vessel.  First, we'll examine how the Titanic serves as a living laboratory for marine biologists and oceanographers. The wreck has become an unprecedented case study of deep-sea decomposition, offering insights into how metal structures deteriorate in extreme conditions and supporting unique ecosystems of "rusticles" and specialized microorganisms. The second segment addresses the ongoing ethical debate surrounding salvage operations. We'll analyze the tension between preserving historical artifacts and maintaining the site's integrity as a maritime grave, examining recent court decisions and competing claims from salvage companies and preservation groups. Finally, we'll delve into the often-overlooked et