Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the significant contributions of researchers from Xi'an University of Electronic Science and Technology (Xidian University) in polar scientific exploration, emphasizing the importance of their work in understanding global climate change and environmental monitoring [1][2][3][4]. Group 1: Research Contributions - Researchers are conducting vital studies in extreme polar environments, which serve as indicators of global climate change [1][2]. - The work includes monitoring Antarctic sea ice and analyzing auroras to understand solar activity and its effects on Earth's magnetic field [2][3]. - The research findings provide essential data for international environmental governance and contribute to global carbon cycle studies [2][3]. Group 2: Personal Experiences and Insights - Researchers express that working in extreme conditions fosters resilience and a deeper understanding of scientific inquiry beyond theoretical knowledge [2][4]. - The challenges faced in polar research, such as equipment failures and the need for teamwork, highlight the practical aspects of scientific exploration [3][4]. - Personal experiences in the polar regions have led to a realization that true scientific research must be tested in real-world environments [4].

Core Viewpoint - The "Xuelong 2" polar research icebreaker successfully completed its mission for China's 41st Antarctic expedition and opened to the public in Haikou, showcasing advancements in polar research technology and engaging the public in scientific exploration [3][9]. Group 1: Event Overview - The public open day for "Xuelong 2" took place from June 2 to June 7, coinciding with the 17th World Oceans Day and the 18th National Ocean Publicity Day [3]. - This event marked the first time "Xuelong 2" was open to the public in Hainan, allowing visitors to explore various areas of the vessel [3][9]. Group 2: Technological Innovations - "Xuelong 2" is the world's first polar research vessel to utilize a bow and stern dual-direction icebreaking technology, significantly enhancing icebreaking efficiency and safety [9]. - The vessel is equipped with advanced systems such as a dynamic positioning system and a moon pool system, enabling precise operations in harsh sea conditions [9]. Group 3: Organizational Support - The Hainan Provincial Oceanic Administration established a dedicated working group to ensure the smooth execution of the open day activities, coordinating with local government and relevant departments [10]. - A comprehensive visitor reservation system was implemented to manage the flow of attendees and ensure orderly participation [10].

Core Insights - The "Xuelong 2" icebreaker successfully completed China's 41st Antarctic expedition, marking the longest single-vessel mission in China's polar research history, lasting 208 days and covering over 40,000 nautical miles [1][2] Group 1: Expedition Highlights - The expedition featured a significant highlight of conducting joint research in the Ross Sea ecosystem during the Antarctic autumn, extending research efforts into harsher natural conditions [1] - The joint mission involved 12 scientists from 8 countries, including the UK, US, Australia, and Thailand, completing 24 comprehensive ocean survey stations and deploying 34 observation buoys [1][2] - The expedition collected over 5,000 samples, including water, sediment, and biological samples, leading to three main new findings regarding water structure and biological activity in the Ross Sea [1] Group 2: Biological Discoveries - In terms of low-nutrient organisms, primary production in the Ross Sea was found to be inactive, while high biomass of zooplankton was observed in the ice-interior lakes [2] - The western Ross Sea slope area was identified as having dense populations of Antarctic krill, with various bird and mammal species concentrated in the ice edge area [2] Group 3: Public Engagement and International Cooperation - The "Xuelong 2" served as a platform for public education, hosting an open day in Thailand that attracted over a thousand visitors, and facilitating an international academic conference on polar science [2] - The vessel will be open to the public in Haikou from June 2 to June 3 and June 5 to June 7, showcasing China's polar research achievements and contributions to international polar governance [2]

Group 1 - The "Snow Dragon 2" icebreaker is 122.5 meters long with a full load displacement of 15,000 tons, capable of breaking through 1.5 meters of ice and 0.2 meters of snow at a speed of 2-3 knots [2] - The director of the Polar Ship Management Center highlighted the importance of polar research for global climate change and human survival, emphasizing adherence to the Antarctic Treaty System [4] - The research team implements low-interference and minimal necessary principles during Antarctic expeditions, including environmental impact assessments and real-time ecological monitoring [5] Group 2 - Zhao Yanping has completed 12 Antarctic and 4 Arctic expeditions, facing challenges such as severe weather and isolation [4] - The recent joint expedition involving 91 researchers from 9 countries marked the first ecological system research in Antarctica during the autumn season, enhancing China's influence in international polar research [5] - The icebreaker is equipped with advanced anti-pollution devices to minimize environmental impact during scientific activities [5]