Larry Connor, a seventy-four-year-old American real estate and technology businessman based in Ohio and a private astronaut certified by NASA, has expressed his interest in diving down to see and explore the Titanic shipwreck. This news comes almost a year after the tragic accident that made waves in the media: the sad death of five billionaires in the Ocean Gate submarine Titan, which imploded at about three thousand (3000) feet. This event adversely affected the private submersible industry, leaving many sceptical about safety concerns.
Connor, who is an avid adventurer, says he will visit the wreck in a two-person submersible that is now being designed—Connor plans to visit the wreck with deep sea explorer Patrick Lahey, co-founder of Triton submarines. Mr Connor told the Wall Street Journal, which first reported on the proposed Triton expedition:
“I want to show people worldwide that while the ocean is mighty, it can be wonderful and enjoyable and really kind of life-changing if you go about it the right way.”
Connor says that what he is doing differently is that he will follow all industry regulations. “These can be dangerous conditions,” Connor said. “We are going to go through multiple steps and certifications to ensure that this vessel, specifically the hull, is safe and sound.” It is estimated the vehicle’s costs will be in the tens of millions and won’t be ready until at least the summer of 2026.