Hey explorers and tech enthusiasts! 🚀 China's polar research icebreaker Xuelong-2 has just wrapped up its 41st Antarctic expedition. After an epic 208-day journey covering over 40,000 nautical miles, it touched down in Haikou, south China's Hainan Province.
This groundbreaking voyage featured China’s first autumn research campaign in the Ross Sea ecosystem. Braving harsh autumn-winter conditions, the team conducted 24 oceanographic surveys, deployed 34 state-of-the-art observation buoys, and collected over 5,000 samples—including water, sediment cores, and unique biological specimens 🧊—to reveal new insights about Antarctica.
International collaboration was a key highlight, with 12 scientists from eight countries—the UK, the U.S., Australia, New Zealand, Norway, South Korea, Thailand, and Malaysia—joining forces to push polar research and conservation forward.
Adding to the excitement, Xuelong-2 made its maiden visit to Thailand from May 19 to 23, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of China-Thailand diplomatic relations. Engaging conferences and public exhibits helped boost polar conservation awareness among locals.
This mission not only underscores China’s growing role in Antarctic science and global environmental stewardship, but also illustrates how international teamwork can help unlock the mysteries of Earth’s last wild frontier. Stay curious and keep exploring! 🌟
Reference(s):
China's icebreaker Xuelong-2 returns after record Antarctic expedition
cgtn.com
