The Discovery of the Titanic by Dr. Robert D. Ballard is the remarkable firsthand account of one of the greatest underwater discoveries in history—the location of the wreck of the RMS Titanic. Written by the renowned oceanographer, marine geologist, and deep-sea explorer who led the historic 1985 expedition, the book recounts the scientific, technological, and human story behind the search that captivated the world. Ballard describes the years of planning, the development of advanced deep-sea exploration technology, and the dramatic expedition aboard the research vessels R/V Knorr and Le Suroît, which culminated in the first images of the Titanic resting nearly 3,800 metres (12,500 feet) beneath the North Atlantic Ocean.

Richly illustrated with over 150 photographs, maps, sonar images, diagrams, and underwater photographs, the book reveals haunting views of the ship's bow, stern, grand staircase area, boilers, personal belongings, and debris field, while explaining the ship's deterioration under the sea. Beyond documenting the discovery, Ballard discusses the engineering challenges of deep-sea exploration, the importance of preserving underwater cultural heritage, and the ethical considerations surrounding exploration of the wreck. Combining history, marine science, archaeology, engineering, and adventure, The Discovery of the Titanic remains one of the most influential and bestselling books ever written about the legendary ocean liner and its rediscovery.