Core Insights - China's 15th Arctic scientific expedition, conducted by the "Snow Dragon 2" ship, has successfully completed its mission, marking the largest Arctic scientific investigation to date [1][3]. Group 1: Expedition Overview - The expedition involved four vessels: "Snow Dragon 2," "Polar," "Deep Sea One," and "Explorer Three," and was organized by the Ministry of Natural Resources [1][3]. - The "Snow Dragon 2" and "Polar" ships conducted comprehensive marine environmental assessments and manned submersible support in the Chukchi Sea, Canadian Basin, and central Arctic regions [3][4]. Group 2: Scientific Achievements - Significant advancements were made in multi-disciplinary investigations and atmospheric-ice-ocean collaborative observations, enhancing synchronous observation capabilities in high-latitude Arctic regions [3]. - The expedition established real-time monitoring of ice drift and underwater hydrological and ecological changes, contributing to the understanding of seasonal variations and underlying mechanisms in the Arctic [3]. Group 3: Ecological Research - The expedition deployed multiple seabed biological imaging observation systems at various depths and time scales, obtaining extensive data on the ice edge zone [3]. - Observations captured significant peaks in subsurface chlorophyll, aiding in the understanding of the formation mechanisms of "sea snow" in the Arctic and laying the groundwork for studying the ecological responses of the ice edge zone to sea ice retreat [3]. Group 4: Deep-Sea Exploration - Under the support of the "Snow Dragon 2," the "Deep Sea One" successfully conducted China's first manned deep-sea dive in the Arctic ice zone, indicating a continuous enhancement of China's deep-sea exploration capabilities [4]. - Initial research revealed significant variations in benthic organism density, biodiversity, and individual size across distances of tens to hundreds of kilometers, providing valuable insights into the spatial distribution of polar deep-sea organisms and the impact of climate change on deep-sea ecosystems [4].

"极目一号"浮空艇大气观测试验现场。中国科学院空天信息创新研究院供图 作为第二次青藏科考的重要任务，"极目一号"自8月以来已累计开展30次高空试验，精准获取了大气成 分、污染物分布等关键数据，为研究青藏高原气候演变与全球气候变化提供了重要数据支撑。 9月19日，形似"大白鲸"的"极目一号"浮空艇在西藏鲁朗地区成功开展大气观测试验。它搭载了3大类16 型、总重约200公斤的科学载荷，在海拔5500米的高空，通过多载荷协同观测，实现从单点采样到立体 监测的技术跨越。 ...

Core Viewpoint - The "Qinghai-Tibet Plateau Ice Dome Exploration - 2025 International Glacier Protection Year Tangula Mountain Scientific Expedition" has officially commenced, focusing on glacier boundary dynamics, innovative technology validation, and human adaptability in extreme environments [1][3][13] Group 1: Scientific Expedition Details - The scientific expedition is organized by the Northwest Institute of Eco-Environment and Resources of the Chinese Academy of Sciences and the China Scientific Exploration Association [1] - The expedition will study glacier boundary dynamics, innovative technology validation, human adaptability in extreme environments, and the application of scientific equipment [3] - The official vehicle fleet for the expedition consists of 7 Manly M817 and 3 Manly 917 vehicles, marking the first large-scale scientific expedition using domestically produced new energy off-road vehicles in the Tangula Mountain area [8] Group 2: Support and Collaboration - The expedition has received significant support from various companies, including Huawei, Dongfeng Motor Group, and others, ensuring the scientific and safety aspects of the expedition [5][6] - Strategic partners from Huawei and Dongfeng expressed their commitment to providing smart wearable devices and new energy vehicles tailored for scientific exploration scenarios [11] Group 3: Environmental Significance - The Qinghai-Tibet Plateau is a critical area for the global cryosphere, and its ecological changes have profound implications for global climate and water supply [5] - The 2025 International Glacier Protection Year aims to promote climate adaptation research, policy progress, and practical actions related to glaciers [13] - This expedition is part of the second comprehensive scientific investigation of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, focusing on the dynamic changes and impacts of Asia's water tower [13]

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the significance and challenges faced by the Anduo Meteorological Station, the highest staffed weather station in the world, located in Tibet, which plays a crucial role in climate change research and local weather monitoring [2][8]. Group 1: Environmental Conditions - Anduo experiences extreme weather conditions, including over 140 days of winds exceeding 8 levels, an average annual temperature of -2.8 degrees Celsius, and a record low of -43.2 degrees Celsius [3][4]. - The region has the highest number of thunderstorm days (over 90) and hail days (over 70) in the country, making it a challenging environment for meteorological work [3][4]. Group 2: Challenges Faced by Meteorological Staff - Meteorological staff often suffer from altitude sickness, insomnia, and other health issues due to the high-altitude environment, with many experiencing severe headaches and chest discomfort [4][6]. - The working conditions have improved with the introduction of oxygen machines and centralized heating, but the harsh environment still poses significant challenges [4][6]. Group 3: Operational Responsibilities - The Anduo Meteorological Station is responsible for monitoring weather conditions, maintaining equipment, and ensuring the functionality of 28 automatic weather stations across a vast area of 100,000 square kilometers [5][9]. - Staff members often face difficult and dangerous conditions while conducting maintenance, including traversing high-altitude areas and dealing with equipment failures due to extreme weather [6][9]. Group 4: Contribution to Local Development - The meteorological department plays a vital role in ensuring the safety of transportation routes, particularly the Qinghai-Tibet Highway, by providing timely weather forecasts and warnings [8][9]. - The establishment of additional weather stations is underway to enhance monitoring capabilities and improve the accuracy of weather predictions, supporting local development efforts [9].