China has successfully concluded its 40th Antarctic expedition, marking a significant milestone with the return of the nation's first domestically built icebreaker, Xuelong-2, to Qingdao City in early April.
The expedition was a cornerstone for polar atmospheric research, encompassing the establishment and maintenance of a meteorological observation station, atmospheric chemistry studies at Zhongshan Station, and the collection of critical atmospheric samples.
Currently, scientists at the Chinese Academy of Meteorological Sciences are meticulously analyzing the collected samples, which include key greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide, methane, and sulfur hexafluoride. By comparing these concentrations with data from previous years, researchers aim to uncover new findings that could enhance our understanding of climate dynamics.
China's approach to Antarctic atmospheric research is multifaceted, involving real-time online monitoring at Zhongshan Station, on-site sample collection for detailed laboratory analysis in Beijing, and continuous manual ground meteorological observations. This comprehensive methodology ensures that data is reliably transmitted back to China daily and shared with the World Meteorological Organization through the China Meteorological Administration.
Since 2008, the atmospheric background monitoring system at Zhongshan Station has been pivotal in providing uninterrupted online data, utilizing professional gas storage bottles to safeguard sample integrity. These efforts are instrumental in bridging gaps in China's polar atmospheric research and contributing valuable insights to the global scientific community.
With each expedition, Chinese scientists play an increasingly vital role in studying Antarctic climate change and its far-reaching impacts, reinforcing China's commitment to advancing global climate science.
Reference(s):
Atmosphere research underway after China's 40th Antarctic expedition
cgtn.com
