The North Atlantic expedition resulted in the creation of a unique computer model of the Titanic, after a scanning operation using submersibles at a depth of approximately 3,810 meters.
The expedition in the North Atlantic lasted three weeks and resulted in the collection of 715,000 photographs and 16 terabytes of data, enabling researchers to create a seamless and integrated 3D model of the Titanic.
The model showed the ship's bow standing almost vertically, while the stern, which had been torn away for 800 meters, was a mangled mass of metal. Thousands of pieces, including personal belongings, were scattered across an area of 15 square miles.
The model helped confirm hypotheses and refute rumors surrounding the incident. At the stern, an open steam valve linked to the actions of Chief Engineer Joseph Bell and his team explained why the ship's lights remained on almost until the very end. The position of the lifeboat launching crane also showed it was ready for operation, confirming that First Officer William McMaster Murdoch was on duty until the very last moment.
A new computer simulation of the iceberg collision revealed that the impact lasted about six seconds and resulted in holes totaling about 12 meters in length, which appeared at the joints between six waterproof sections, leading to the sinking of the ship.
The three-dimensional model allows for the study of corrosion and collapse processes without damaging the shipwreck, and forms the basis for the creation of virtual museums and educational programs in the fields of engineering, physics, and history.
