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113 Years After Titanic Sank, New Documentary Unveils Stunning 3D Model
WASHINGTON – On the 113th anniversary of the sinking of the R.M.S. Titanic, National Geographic is offering an unprecedented look at the tragic event. A new documentary, utilizing cutting-edge underwater scanning technology, presents a remarkably detailed digital model of the ship, accurate down to the smallest rivet.
The 3D scanning project, completed in 2022 by filmmaker Anthony Geffen and deep-sea mapping company Magellan, took almost two years to analyze. According to National Geographic, the findings challenge long-held beliefs about the disaster.
The Titanic struck an iceberg at approximately 11:40 p.m. on April 14, 1912, less than 400 miles south of Canada. The “unsinkable” ship sank less than three hours later, claiming the lives of over 1,500 of the 2,240 passengers and crew onboard.
The documentary reveals several compelling discoveries, including an open steam valve, suggesting crew members heroically remained at their posts to maintain electricity and send distress signals. Despite their efforts, the ship’s remote location hampered rescue attempts.
Contrary to popular depictions, the documentary illustrates the Titanic’s violent demise. Instead of a clean break, the ship was ripped apart, impacting areas where prominent passengers may have sheltered. The documentary also exonerates First Officer William Murdoch, long accused of abandoning his post, suggesting he and his crew were swept away by the surging waters.
The limited number of lifeboats onboard – only enough for about half the passengers and crew – further compounded the tragedy. The deep-sea scans also reveal the rapid deterioration of the wreck, which rests 12,500 feet below the surface. A planned 2026 submersible expedition to the site has drawn criticism from governments and families of the victims.