Core Points - The 42nd Antarctic Expedition Team from China has set out on November 1, 2025, with over 500 members from more than 80 domestic units and international researchers from over 10 countries and regions [1] - The expedition will focus on three main tasks: enhancing the infrastructure and operational capabilities of the Qinling Station, conducting comprehensive investigations in Antarctica to better understand its role in global climate change, and implementing major R&D projects and new applications of domestic equipment technology [1] Group 1 - The expedition is supported by the "Xuelong" and "Xuelong 2" vessels and is expected to return to China by May 2026 [1] - The team will conduct scientific drilling experiments in deep subglacial lakes using domestically developed hot water drilling and melting systems, aiming to explore isolated subglacial environments and geological features [1] - The expedition will also validate domestically manufactured equipment such as the "Snow Leopard" 6×6 wheeled vehicle and THT550 hydraulic traction equipment, along with advanced technologies for automatic observation and satellite remote sensing [1]

Core Points - The 42nd Antarctic Expedition Team of China has set sail to conduct significant research and development projects, focusing on infrastructure enhancement, comprehensive investigations, and the application of domestic technologies [1][2] Group 1: Infrastructure Development - The expedition will prioritize the improvement of the Qinling Station's supporting facilities, including the research building, oil supply system, and communication network, to enhance operational support and scientific research capabilities [1] - The team will continue to validate the adaptability of domestically produced facilities such as seawater desalination, wind power generation, and photovoltaic power generation in extreme Antarctic conditions [1] Group 2: Comprehensive Investigations - The expedition will conduct multi-disciplinary investigations in key Antarctic regions, including the Antarctic Peninsula, Amundsen Sea, Ross Sea, and Prydz Bay, focusing on the impact of climate change on the Southern Ocean ecosystem [2] - Long-term observational data will be collected across various fields such as marine, biological, chemical, atmospheric, and glaciological studies to improve understanding of Antarctica's role in global climate change [2] Group 3: Technology Application and International Cooperation - The expedition will implement scientific drilling experiments in deep ice layer lakes using domestically developed hot water drilling and melting systems, aiming to explore isolated subglacial lake environments and geological features [2] - The team will also validate the use of domestically manufactured equipment like the "Snow Leopard" 6×6 wheeled vehicle and THT550 hydraulic traction equipment in the Antarctic, alongside advanced technologies for automatic observation and satellite remote sensing [2] - The expedition aims to strengthen operational observations and international collaboration, expanding partnerships with countries such as Chile, Thailand, and Portugal in research, observation, and logistical support [2]