China Embarks on 41st Antarctic Expedition to Tackle Climate Change
On Friday, China's 41st Antarctic expedition team set sail, marking the beginning of a nearly seven-month mission aimed at advancing climate research and strengthening international cooperation in Antarctica.
The expedition features three ships: the research icebreakers Xuelong and Xuelong 2 (Snow Dragon and Snow Dragon 2), along with the cargo vessel Yong Sheng. The Xuelong 2, capable of reaching speeds up to 15 knots, is expected to arrive in Antarctica by November 26.
Researchers aboard the vessels will focus on building and enhancing the supporting infrastructure for the Qinling Station. Their mission includes investigating the effects of climate change on the Antarctic ecosystem and collaborating on international research and logistics initiatives.
Long Wei, Deputy Head of the Chinese Arctic and Antarctic Administration, explained that the team will conduct extensive studies on biological ecology, water and sedimentary environments, atmospheric conditions, and pollutant distribution. This comprehensive research will leverage the capabilities of China's Antarctic stations—Kunlun, Taishan, Zhongshan, and Changcheng (Great Wall)—to monitor various aspects of the ecosystem.
“Relying on China's Antarctic stations, our scientists will carry out in-depth surveys and monitoring of the ecosystem, nearshore marine environment, soil, geology, atmosphere, snow and ice, and space environments. This research will provide critical insights into Antarctica's role in global climate change,” said Long Wei.
The mission will span key regions, including Prydz Bay in East Antarctica, the Astronaut Sea, Ross Sea in West Antarctica, Amundsen Sea, and nearby waters around the Antarctic Peninsula.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
