LITERATURE + LECTURES

The Houston Museum of Natural Science presents an HMNS/AIA Distinguished Lecture.  Fascinating Speakers, Cutting Edge Science.  Hear about the latest scientific discoveries - from the world's foremost experts. Throughout the year, HMNS hosts a variety of distinguished lecturers to enhance your understanding of a current exhibition or provide new perspectives on captivating topics.

Thursday, April 12, 2012 6:30 p.m.
Icon of Empire -The Archaeology of the Titanic
Dr. James Delgado, Director of Maritime Preservation, NOAA

Launched in May 1911 and completed and ready for sea in March 1912, RMS Titanic epitomized the wealth, power, and sense of invincibility of the British Empire, an empire “on which the sun never set.” Despite its vaunted luxuries, and its technological marvels, the unthinkable happened on the steamer’s maiden voyage when Titanic struck an iceberg late on the evening of April 14, and sank a few hours later on the early morning of April 15, 1912.

More than 1,500 people died in the disaster, shocking the world. For some, this event became a harbinger of the beginning of the end of an era. The 1985 discovery of the wreck of Titanic, 2-1/2 miles beneath the surface of the North Atlantic, demonstrated that technology now enabled explorers and archaeologists to find and visit shipwrecks at the greatest depths of the ocean. The question of whether that same technology allowed for meaningful archaeology, as opposed to the simple recovery of artifacts, has remained an open question for the last three decades. In 2010, a comprehensive scientific and archaeological mission completed the first detailed map of the entire wreck site and commenced a new era of preservation and archaeology for this iconic shipwreck.

James Delgado was the chief scientist and archaeologist on the expedition, and in this special presentation will share the results and discuss options for Titanic’s future. Follow one of the most technologically advanced scientific expeditions ever mounted to investigate the wreck and preserve the stories of the individuals who were involved and died on the “night to remember.” The legacy of Titanic is not only an important moment in history but a contributor to science, archaeology, oceanography, and the perpetual fascination with exploration.

Co-sponsored by Archaeological Institute of America - Houston Society.

Pictured:  RMS Titanic before departing Southampton, England.