In a landmark display of international scientific cooperation, researchers from the Chinese mainland and Chile have embarked on a pioneering expedition to study the Atacama Trench – the world's longest undersea canyon. The Tan Suo Yi Hao (Discovery One), China's advanced deep-sea research vessel, departed Valparaiso this week carrying the record-breaking Fendouzhe (Striver) submersible capable of reaching depths exceeding 10,000 meters.
Unlocking the Trench's Biological Mysteries
The 2026 mission focuses on documenting previously unknown chemosynthetic ecosystems and marine biodiversity in this extreme environment. Scientists emphasize the trench's unique conditions could reveal new insights about life adaptation under high pressure and low temperatures.
Technological Marvels Enable New Discoveries
The Fendouzhe submersible, which completed its first 10,000-meter dive in 2020, will deploy specialized sampling equipment and high-resolution imaging systems. Chilean marine biologist Dr. Valentina Cruz noted: "This collaboration combines China's deep-sea engineering expertise with our regional knowledge of Pacific ecosystems."
