China’s icebreaker Xuelong wrapped up its 42nd Antarctic expedition this week, marking a milestone in polar research as it departed Terra Nova Bay on February 21, 2026. The vessel retrieved critical ecological data and completed advanced ocean surveys, showcasing China’s growing role in climate science 🌍.
After picking up 69 summer team members from Qinling Station—now transitioning to its overwintering phase—the crew recovered the final acoustic device in the Ross Sea. Eighteen researchers will remain at the station to monitor environmental shifts during Antarctica’s harsh winter ❄️.
Zhang Haifeng, head of the ocean team, highlighted breakthroughs in studying marine ecosystems, including penguin habitats and krill populations. New domestically developed sensors were deployed to track underwater conditions beneath ice sheets, a leap for long-term polar monitoring 🔬.
Next stop? The Xuelong heads to Australia’s Hobart before returning home, while part of the team prepares for further work at Zhongshan Station. Talk about #PolarGrind!
