RMS Titanic Inc. has successfully completed its first expedition to the Titanic wreck site since 2010, marking a significant return to underwater exploration.

During this expedition, the team captured over two million high-resolution images and videos, significantly enhancing existing photorealistic models of the wreck.

The expedition achieved the most detailed 3D imaging scan of the wreck site to date and discovered a previously unseen bronze statue, the Diana of Versailles, from the first-class lounge.

This two-foot-tall statuette was lost when the Titanic sank and had remained undiscovered for over a century until its recent location.

While the rediscovery of the statue was celebrated, the expedition also revealed the loss of a significant section of the bow railing, which had been intact as recently as 2022.

The findings underscore the urgency for preservation efforts, as the wreck continues to deteriorate, prompting researchers to document and recover artifacts before they are lost.

Tomasina Ray, director of collections for RMS Titanic, expressed mixed feelings about the discoveries, highlighting the commitment to preserving the Titanic's legacy amid ongoing decay.

Recent photos and videos from the dive expedition show significant decay at the Titanic wreck site, including visible damage and the loss of large sections.

RMS Titanic, Inc. has conducted nine expeditions to the wreck since 1987, with plans to return next year to recover additional artifacts.

This expedition took place amid ongoing investigations by the U.S. Coast Guard into the June 2023 implosion of the Titan submersible, which resulted in the deaths of five people.

Titanic researcher James Penca emphasized the importance of continuing to explore the site to recover historical artifacts like the Diana statue, which has been submerged for 112 years.

There remains an ongoing debate about whether the wreck should be disturbed, with some arguing it is a grave site that should remain undisturbed.