Photograph by Randy Olson
Photograph by Randy Olson
Best known for his 1985 discovery of the Titanic shipwreck, National Geographic Explorer-in-Residence Robert Ballard is a veteran of more than 125 expeditions, many in search of lost ships and ancient artifacts. He is president of the Institute for Exploration in Mystic, Connecticut, and director of the Institute for Archaeological Oceanography at the University of Rhode Island.
A pioneer in the early use of deep-diving submarines, he was on the first manned expedition of the largest mountain range on Earth, the Mid-Ocean Ridge. Later he lead an expedition off the Galápagos Islands that discovered new life-forms on Earth, a discovery that has revolutionized our understanding of the origin of life on our planet and increased the likelihood of discovering life elsewhere in the solar system. Following his discovery of the Titanic, he went to find other lost legends in the sea including the German battleship Bismarck, the aircraft carrier Yorktown lost during the Battle of Midway, and President Kennedy’s PT-109. His recent Return to Titanic special on the National Geographic Channel was the highest rated show in their history.
Ballard, a former naval officer, is the recipient of numerous awards, including six military honors, The Explorers Club Medal, and National Geographic’s highest award, the Hubbard Medal. In his presentations, Ballard shares stories of his underwater adventures and his vision of how technology can continue to advance the frontiers of exploration.
Popular Presentation
Adventures in Deep Sea Exploration
In this visually gripping presentation, Ballard shares his passion for the last great uncharted territory. Working closely with NOAA, Ballard uses cutting-edge science and technology to explore the ocean’s depths in order to better understand and preserve our waters for the generations that follow.
Learn More About Bob:
Listen to Radio Interview With Bob Ballard
Boyd Matson Interviews Bob for NG Weekend Radio Show
Ocean explorer Robert Ballard takes us on a mindbending trip to hidden worlds underwater, where he and other researchers are finding unexpected life, resources, even new mountains. He makes a case for serious exploration and mapping.
When 60 Minutes correspondent Lara Logan accompanies Dr. Ballard on an expedition to hunt for ancient shipwrecks, they make an incredible find. What’s more, she uncovers what makes this legend tick.
Follow Robert Ballard’s journeys into the deep.
Dr. Ballard tells of the first time he encountered a rogue wave.
Dr. Ballard directs several expeditions around the world at once in his hunt for the cradle of life.
Deep-sea voyager Robert Ballard has discovered everything from 10-foot-tall tube worms to the Titanic on his ocean expeditions around the world. Ballard discusses his underwater finds and how new robotic technology allows scientists to explore the sea from ashore.
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