An expedition funded by the Royal Canadian Geographical Society (RCGS) is set to explore the wreck of the Quest, which sank in 1962 in the Labrador Sea. Using advanced Canadian underwater imaging technology, researchers aim to create a detailed digital twin of the ship. This initiative marks a shift towards digitally documenting shipwrecks rather than physically recovering them.
The 21-day expedition, departing from Massachusetts on July 2, will also survey Terra Nova, the vessel that transported British explorer Robert Falcon Scott to Antarctica. The expedition team, including CBC News, plans to provide exclusive coverage as they document the wrecks.
The opportunity to digitally record both the Quest and Terra Nova is described as a “once-in-a-generation” experience by expedition co-chief scientist David Mearns. Shackleton, a renowned Antarctic explorer, died aboard the Quest in 1922. The wooden vessel continued in service for several decades before sinking off Labrador.
The Quest lies nearly 500 meters off Labrador’s coast, while Terra Nova rests in about 170 meters of water near Greenland. The expedition, building on the 2024 discovery of the Quest, aims to uncover more about the wrecks and the surrounding debris fields.
The research will rely on cutting-edge technology, including lasers and stereo cameras, to create detailed three-dimensional models of the wrecks. By employing digital photogrammetry, the team will capture real-time images to enhance their understanding of the ships’ conditions and historical significance.
Voyis, a company specializing in underwater imagery, will play a crucial role in the expedition. The use of digital twins allows for safer and more precise exploration compared to traditional methods involving divers. This approach enables detailed analysis and reevaluation of findings long after the expedition concludes.
While the expedition is filled with anticipation, challenges such as strong currents and poor visibility at depths pose risks to the success of the mission. The team faces the task of safely maneuvering the remotely operated vehicle around the wrecks, emphasizing the need for meticulous planning and execution.
The RCGS expedition represents a significant step in underwater archaeology, showcasing the innovative use of technology to explore and preserve maritime history.