Titanic Logs - July 12th Time to Return to Titanic Pt 9

This is our series of supplemental logs that were taken from our scientific research expedition to RMS Titanic earlier last month. I hope that you enjoy!

I would of liked to have spent more time in the debris field but we spent a large amount of time on the bow section and it is very important to observe the morphological changes within the stern section. Many scientists have found it extremely difficult to quantify structural changes in the stern section because of its inherently poor condition. The effects of the Titanic's implosion due to its rapid descent to the ocean floor has left this section looking like it went through a food processor. Despite this massive destruction, there are several areas of the stern section that we can photometrically evaluate for change.

The first area that we will observe is the poop deck area that is the farthest aft section of the stern. For those unfamiliar with this part of the ship, in James Cameron's movie, Titanic, it was the area that Rose feigned jumping off the end of the ship.This area has collapsed over the years and it would be a good site for our study. Last year, Robert Ballard explored this area of the ship and found that a plaque that he placed in 1986 had disappeared. Although Dr. Ballard had attributed this disappearance to someone would may have had malicious intent, I can reassure everyone that the true reason was not so sinister. Dr. Ballard's plaque was originally placed on the edge of this section of the poop. Over the years this section has collapsed several feet and the plaque, quite simply, fell off the backside of the stern. Although we did not spend the time to look for the plaque, my guess is that the plaque is slightly buried by fallen rusticles and other debris that came down with this collapse.

The next area that we will visit is one of the most exhilarating sites on our expedition. With our submersible pilot's experience and skill (Genya), we will be examining the port side propeller. This propeller is huge! What is most noticeable is the fact that this bronze propeller is in pristine condition. The three huge blades of the propeller are enormous and even the blades identifying serial numbers can be read. For those conspiracy theorists that believe that Titanic was switched with its sister ship Olympic, I am sad to report that this propeller's serial numbers match EXACTLY that of Harland and Wolff's original records for TITANIC.

Comments

[Pedro Caleja]

The Titanic logs are fantastic to read, but is it possible to add some images, just one or two per day. It would be great.

[David Bright]

Hello Pedro,

Thank you for your kind comments. Our corporation has been engaged in several other scientific research projects that have kept us extremely busy over the past 8 weeks. We will be premiering several portions of our new photographic and high-quality video production this Friday evening August 19th at the Titanic exhibit at the Whitaker Science Center in Harrisburg, PA. This exhibit contains many Titanic artifacts and is part of the roving exhibit that is supported by the RMS Titanic company.

We will be releasing our latest photographs to the public within the next few weeks so please visit the weblog frequently to find out exactly when this will occur. I am very happy that you are enjoying the supplemental logs, as we have been getting very favorable email from all over the world.

Regards,
David Bright
President
Nautical Research Group, Inc.

[Fred]

I have an inquiry as to the condition of the watertight doors on the lower decks of the Titanic. I have always heard that these doors had been left open. Is there any evidence to support this claim?