The deep-sea submersible “Jiaolong”, launched from its support vessel “Shenhai 1”, has completed China’s first manned exploration in the Arctic ice zone.
This mission was part of China’s 15th and the largest scientific expedition to the Arctic Ocean organized by the Ministry of Natural Resources. The expedition involves four vessels — “Xuelong 2”, “Jidi”, “Shenhai 1” and “Tansuo 3” — all built by China State Shipbuilding Corporation Limited (CSSC). Initial findings indicate significant variations in the density, biodiversity, and size of benthic organisms across different Arctic sea areas, offering valuable insights into the spatial distribution of these organisms and the effects of climate change on the deep-sea ecosystem.
The first domestically built polar scientific research icebreaker, “Xuelong 2”, can sail 20,000 nautical miles with a crew of 101. With its structure meeting PC3 requirements (an international standard for icebreakers, ranging from PC1-PC7 with PC1 as the best), it can navigate globally, and sail safely in polar region.
The ship is equipped with globally advanced marine investigation and observation devices, which can conduct research related to physical oceanography, marine chemistry, and marine biodiversity in the ice-covered oceans. Thus, it has become an important platform for carrying out polar marine environment investigations and scientific research.
(Executive editor: Yuan Ting)
