URI_Research_Magazine_Momentum_Fall_2021_Melissa-McCarthy

The submersible provides greater impact for the scientific community because it makes direct observation of archaeological sites.

OceanGate’s Titan, being launched from its platform. (Photo courtesy of David Concannon)

archaeologist, and one of the things I’ve been very involved in during the last 10 years is developing new technology to make underwater research, and in particular archaeology, more accessible and affordable to scientists and people in developing countries.” Buxton received a grant from the URI Division of Research and Economic Development to help develop an affordable scanning sonar for oceanographic technology purposes. Her involvement with the OceanGate, Inc. Titan submersible is part of this research. “The submersible can be operated behind any ship,” says Buxton. “In addition to deep ocean exploration, it can also be used in shallow and coastal areas. This technology makes it much more affordable to do oceanographic research.”

URI Associate Professor Bridget Buxton, URI President Marc B. Parlange, OceanGate President Stockton Rush, OceanGate Foundation Trustee Wendy Rush.

Titan, is the first and only five- crewmember submersible to reach the Titanic.

FALL | 2021 Page 17

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