raised concerns about the safety of the submersible. The $30 Logitech F710 wireless PC game controller used for steering has also come under scrutiny. Read this blog post to learn more about the incident and the potential implications for maritime exploration.

The Mysterious Disappearance

On June 18, 2023, the Titan submarine, owned by OceanGate Expeditions, lost contact with the Polar Prince research ship while on an expedition to explore the Titanic. The submarine was last detected in the North Atlantic, prompting an ongoing search operation. The five crew members on board, including British billionaire Hamish Harding and OceanGate’s founder and CEO, Stockton Rush, remain missing.

Unconventional Design and Safety Implications

Revelations surrounding the Titan’s non-standard design and deviations from safety regulations have raised concerns. A CBS Sunday Morning segment showcased the submarine’s unconventional features, including off-the-shelf computer displays, improvised construction materials, and, notably, the use of a Logitech F710 wireless game controller as its primary steering mechanism.

The Logitech F710 wireless game controller, despite its modest price tag, gained attention as an integral component of the Titan’s steering system. Introduced in 2010, this PC gamepad features dual-thumbsticks and has maintained its availability over the years. Following the disclosure of its role on the Titan, social media buzz led to a swift sell-out of the product on platforms like Amazon.

Search and Rescue Operations

With time being of the essence, rescue teams have deployed a range of resources, including sonar buoys and underwater detection capabilities, in an extensive search operation. The urgency stems from the limited oxygen supply within the submarine, estimated by the US Coast Guard to last between 70 to 96 hours. Locating the submarine is crucial to the subsequent investigation into the cause of the incident.

The disappearance of the Titan submarine near the Titanic site has drawn attention to its unorthodox design choices and potential safety implications. The use of a modestly priced Logitech gamepad for steering has sparked discussions about the importance of adhering to rigorous safety protocols in maritime exploration. As rescue efforts persist, hope remains for the safe recovery of the crew. This incident serves as a poignant reminder of the need for comprehensive investigations and enhanced safety measures to prevent such occurrences in the future.

Was a $30 Gamepad to Blame?

The use of a $30 Logitech gamepad as the primary steering mechanism for the Titan submarine has raised questions about whether this could have been a factor in the incident. The gamepad is not designed for use in submersibles, and it is possible that it could have malfunctioned or failed to function properly in the harsh underwater environment.

It is also possible that the gamepad was not the only factor that contributed to the disappearance of the Titan submarine. Other factors, such as operator error or mechanical failure, could also have played a role. However, the use of a $30 gamepad as the primary steering mechanism is certainly a cause for concern, and it raises questions about the safety of the Titan submarine and other submersibles that use similar equipment.

Only time will tell what caused the disappearance of the Titan submarine. However, this incident serves as a reminder of the importance of safety in maritime exploration. It is essential that submersibles are properly designed and equipped, and that operators are properly trained. By taking these precautions, we can help to prevent future tragedies.