Who Is Robert Ballard? Age, Biography and Wiki
Robert Ballard was born on June 30, 1942. As of 2025, he is 82 years old. A retired US Navy officer and an esteemed professor of oceanography, Ballard is best known for his groundbreaking discoveries in marine archaeology, including the wreck of the RMS Titanic and the USS Yorktown. His extensive contributions to ocean exploration have earned him numerous accolades and a respected place in scientific history.
Ballard's passion for the ocean began at a young age, leading him to pursue a career dedicated to exploring and preserving the mysteries of the deep sea. In addition to his work in oceanography, he has authored several books and regularly shares his knowledge and experiences through documentaries and public speaking engagements.
| Occupation | Oceanographer |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | June 30, 1942 |
| Age | 83 Years |
| Birth Place | Wichita, Kansas, U.S. |
| Horoscope | Cancer |
| Country | U.S |
Popularity
Robert Ballard's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Robert Ballard stands at an impressive height of 6 feet (183 cm) and maintains a weight of approximately 170 lbs (77 kg). His body measurements and fitness level reflect his active lifestyle, which includes conducting oceanic research and exploration activities.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Robert Ballard is currently single. He has historically kept his personal life private, focusing primarily on his professional accomplishments. Information regarding past relationships is minimal; however, he was previously married and has children from that marriage. His dedication to family and his career has always been evident, though specific details about his dating life remain largely undisclosed.
Ballard discovered hydrothermal vents, where life goes on powered by nutrient chemicals emitted by the vents rather than the sunlight that drives most life on Earth; he said "finding hydrothermal vents beats the hell out of finding the Titanic", and his mother commented "It's too bad you found that rusty old boat...
they're only going to remember you for finding [it]". Ballard also established the JASON Project, and leads ocean exploration on the research vessel E/V Nautilus.
Net Worth and Salary
As of 2025, Robert Ballard's net worth is estimated to be around $10 million. This impressive figure is a result of his successful career in oceanography, book deals, public speaking engagements, and his contributions to various educational institutions. His salary can vary widely based on projects and consultations, but he often receives substantial compensation for his expertise in marine sciences.
Career, Business and Investments
Ballard's career spans several decades, with notable achievements including the discovery of the Titanic in 1985 and numerous other underwater explorations. He is the founder of the Ocean Exploration Trust, an organization committed to advancing marine exploration and education.
In addition to his explorations, Ballard has been involved in various educational initiatives, serving as a professor of oceanography and contributing to research institutions. He often collaborates with businesses and organizations focused on ocean conservation and scientific research, further expanding his influence in the field.
Ballard joined the United States Army Reserve in 1965 through the Reserve Officers Training program. He was commissioned as a second lieutenant and assigned to army intelligence. When called to active duty in 1967, he asked to fulfill his obligation in the United States Navy. His request was approved, and he was transferred to the Navy Reserve.
After completing his active-duty obligation in 1970, he was returned to reserve status, where he remained for much of his military career, being called up only for mandatory training and special assignments. He retired from the Navy as a commander in 1995 after reaching the statutory service limit.
Social Network
Robert Ballard is active on several social media platforms, although he maintains a more professional presence. His reach extends across platforms such as Twitter and LinkedIn, where he shares insights, updates on marine exploration, and promotes ocean conservation initiatives. Engaging with followers, Ballard often uses his online presence to raise awareness about oceanic issues and inspire the next generation of scientists.
After their missions for the Navy, Knorr arrived on site on August 22, 1985, and deployed Argo. When they searched for the two submarines, Ballard and his team discovered they had imploded from the immense pressure at depth. It littered thousands of pieces of debris all over the ocean floor.
Following the large trail of debris led them directly to the remnants of both vessels and made them significantly easier to locate than if they were to search for the hulls directly. He already knew that the Titanic imploded from pressure, much like the two submarines, and concluded that it too must have left a scattered debris trail.
Using that lesson, they had Argo sweep back and forth across the ocean floor looking for the Titanic's debris trail. They took shifts monitoring the video feed from Argo as it searched the ocean floor two miles below.
Education
Ballard received his undergraduate degree in geology and geophysics from the University of California, Santa Barbara, followed by a Ph.D. in oceanography from the University of Rhode Island. His academic background laid the foundation for his illustrious career in ocean exploration and scientific research. As a dedicated educator, he also plays a crucial role in mentoring students and young professionals in the field of oceanography.
Robert Duane Ballard (born June 30, 1942) is an American retired Navy officer and a professor of oceanography at the University of Rhode Island who is noted for his work in underwater archaeology (maritime archaeology and archaeology of shipwrecks) and marine geology.
He is best known by the general public for the discoveries of the wrecks of the RMS Titanic in 1985, the battleship Bismarck in 1989, and the aircraft carrier USS Yorktown (CV-5) in 1998. He discovered the wreck of John F. Kennedy's PT-109 in 2002 and visited Biuku Gasa and Eroni Kumana, who saved its crew.
