Members of China's 41st Antarctic expedition team held a flag-raising ceremony on Saturday in China's Qinling Station, the country's fifth research station in Antarctic, to ring in the new year.
Many of the team members had participated in the flag-raising ceremony on Feb 7, 2024, when the Qinling Station started operation. This year, with a set of new tasks at hand, the expedition team has welcomed several fresh faces. As it is the first time for the newcomers to come to the station, they will have to face the challenges of the frozen continent head-on.
"I'm extremely excited to attend the flag-raising ceremony, especially here in Antarctica. I feel this is a very meaningful part of my life," said Zhang Hong, a member of the 41st Chinese Antarctic Expedition team.
Fellow team member Guo Dongliang highlighted the mission's scientific focus.
"Our mission this time involves solving hydrogen production, storage, fuel cell power generation, a full-cycle power generation system. it marks its first application in Antarctica and our contribution to China's polar endeavors," said Guo.
Over the years, China's polar research has evolved from the humble beginnings to the establishment of five research stations, from basic fieldwork to a fully mechanized approach, including ships, vehicles, and aircraft, and from survey ships to ice-strengthened ships and icebreakers, highlighting China's more active and constructive role in international polar governance.
On the last day of 2024, with the sun shining 24 hours a day in Antarctica, the Qinling Station appeared as a bustling construction site, from unloading supplies on the shore to operations at the mountaintop.
While the previous expedition focused on constructing the station's basic framework, the current team is tasked with bringing it to life. Their mission includes completing the outdoor pipeline network, establishing new energy and hydrogen energy systems, and finalizing the construction of the scientific research and communication areas.
"Our primary focus during the summer season is to complete essential supporting facilities, such as the new energy systems, fuel tanks, wastewater treatment, seawater desalination, incinerator, and outdoor pipelines. These are crucial for ensuring our ability to withstand the harsh environment during the overwintering period," said Wang Zhechao, chief of Qinling Station of China's 41st Antarctic Expedition.
The Qinling Station will welcome its first overwintering team in 2025.
China's Antarctic expedition team holds flag-raising ceremony to ring in new year
China's Antarctic expedition team holds flag-raising ceremony to ring in new year
China's Antarctic expedition team holds flag-raising ceremony to ring in new year
China's Antarctic expedition team holds flag-raising ceremony to ring in new year
