China's 41st Antarctic expedition has reached a significant milestone with the arrival of the research icebreaker Xuelong 2 (Snow Dragon 2) and cargo vessel Yong Sheng at Qinling Station, China's fifth research station on the continent.
The unloading of supplies is expected to take five days. The cargo includes 6,021 tons of logistics supplies, construction materials, research equipment, and fuel to support the operation of Qinling Station. The operation is being carried out by barge, with some materials and waste expected to be transported back to China.
The 41st Antarctic Expedition mission started on Nov 1 and will last nearly seven months and is being carried out by three ships, including Xuelong, Xuelong 2, and Yong Sheng.
During the expedition, researchers will build the supporting infrastructure for the Qinling Station, investigate the impact of climate change on the Antarctic ecosystem, and conduct international research and logistics cooperation.