NAUTILUS

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Non profit group explored three iconic shipwrecks

Between Sep 8-12, 2023, deep-sea explorers aboard the 'Nautilus' have captured detailed images of three iconic shipwrecks from World War II's Battle of Midway, including the first up-close photos of a Japanese aircraft carrier since it sank during the historic battle in 1942. The 'Akagi' was surveyed along with two other aircraft carriers by a crew aboard the 'Nautilus'. On Sep 10, a team spent 14 hours surveying the 'Akagi', which was the first time anyone has laid eyes on the vessel since sinking during June 1942's Battle of Midway. The vessel was initially located during a mapping survey in 2019. The team was also able to conduct the first detailed surveys of the Japanese Imperial Navy's 'Kaga' and the USS 'Yorktown'. The 'Yorktown' was first located 25 years ago during a joint U.S. Navy and National Geographic Society expedition led by Robert Ballard, the founder of Ocean Exploration Trust. The crew used remote-controlled vessels to film the shipwrecks, and over 100 experts from the U.S., Japan and across the globe were connected to ship operations with video technology, helping guide the mission and providing valuable real-time interpretations throughout the surveys. The expedition team completed non-invasive visual surveys of the wrecks during three deployments below 5,100 meters. The mission marked the deepest remotely operated vehicle dive that the 'Nautilus' has ever completed. During over 43 hours at depth, we methodically circumnavigated the wrecks, bringing to light many features in great detail, including their armament, battle, and sinking-related damage. Many anti-aircraft guns were still pointing up, providing clues about the final moments on these iconic ships. Each dive ended with protocol ceremonies to honor all who lost their lives in the battle. Report with photos and video: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/wwii-shipwrecks-battle-of-midway-japanese-imperial-navy-akagi-kaga-uss-yorktown/