China's 41st Antarctic expedition is making significant strides as two ships, the research icebreaker Xuelong 2 and the cargo vessel Yong Sheng, converge in Antarctica this Saturday.
The Xuelong 2 is set to break ice and guide the Yong Sheng to Qinling Station, where the team will begin constructing new station facilities and equipment. The Yong Sheng departed from Jiangsu Province on November 20, transporting approximately 16,000 cubic meters of construction materials essential for building Qinling Station's supporting infrastructure.
As China's first domestically developed icebreaker, Xuelong 2, also known as Snow Dragon 2, set sail from Nansha International Cruise Home Port in Guangzhou on November 1, accompanying its predecessor, Xuelong.
The duo of vessels play a crucial role in scientific research, personnel transportation, and logistical support. In early December, they reached Zhongshan Station, China's largest research base in southeastern Antarctica, where they began unloading and transferring supplies to sustain the research operations.
Organized by the Ministry of Natural Resources, China's 41st Antarctic expedition underscores China's commitment to scientific exploration and presence in Antarctica.
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China's 41st Antarctic expedition ships set to sail to Qinling Station
cgtn.com
