The icy expanses of Antarctica welcomed a new contingent from China as a 34-member preparatory team from China’s 41st Antarctic expedition arrived at Qinling Station, the nation’s fifth research facility on the continent. Tasked with laying the groundwork for the main expedition team’s arrival, their mission marks a significant step in China’s ongoing commitment to polar exploration.
Upon arrival, the team faced the formidable challenge of restoring the station after months of extreme Antarctic weather. With perseverance and expertise, they successfully reactivated key equipment, breathing life back into the dormant facility. The power supply was restored, and critical machinery including three excavators, two loaders, and two 100kW generators were brought back online.
“Reviving the station’s operations is crucial for the success of our mission,” said a team member. “These initial efforts ensure that when the main expedition team arrives, they’ll have a fully functional base to support their scientific endeavors.”
Qinling Station, strategically located to support a range of scientific research activities, plays a vital role in China’s Antarctic expeditions. The preparatory team’s work ensures that the station remains a hub for advancing understanding of the polar environment, contributing to global knowledge in areas such as climate change, glaciology, and marine biology.
The arrival of the main expedition team will further China’s efforts in Antarctica, as they embark on new research projects and continue to strengthen international scientific cooperation in the region.
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China's 41st Antarctic expedition preparatory team arrives at Qinling
cgtn.com
