The search continues for a submersible carrying five people to the Titanic wreckage site, which went missing off the coast of Newfoundland on Sunday. Despite the inherent risks of deep-sea exploration, Titanic expert Larry Daley expresses optimism, citing advancements in technology.

This 2004 image from the Institute for Exploration shows remnants of clothing near the Titanic's stern. (Institute for Exploration, Center for Archaeological Oceanography/University of Rhode Island/NOAA Office of Ocean Exploration, File)

In an interview, Daley acknowledged the dangers while emphasizing the continuous improvement in deep-sea equipment and technology, fueling his hopeful outlook. He also pointed out the submersible's capacity to sustain occupants for several hours with proper maintenance. The Joint Rescue Coordination Centre in Halifax reported the vessel overdue Sunday evening, prompting a search effort involving Canadian and US Coast Guard assets.

OceanGate Expeditions, the company operating the submersible, confirmed the ongoing search and their primary concern for the crew and their families. They expressed gratitude for the support received from various agencies and deep-sea organizations.

FILE PHOTO: The Titanic's bow railing, located deep underwater off Nova Scotia. (Reuters/File photo/File Photo)

David Concannon, an advisor to OceanGate, revealed the loss of contact on Sunday morning, noting the sub's 96-hour oxygen supply. He mentioned efforts to deploy a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) capable of reaching the necessary depth. Among the passengers is UK businessman Hamish Harding, chairman of Action Aviation. Mark Butler, the company's managing director, confirmed the crew's Friday departure and expressed hope for their safe return.

Infographic depicting the search and rescue efforts for the missing tourist submarine. (Yasin Demirci/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images)

This expedition marked OceanGate's third annual trip to document the Titanic's deterioration. Since its discovery in 1985, the wreckage has been gradually decaying due to bacteria, raising concerns about its eventual disappearance.