Core Viewpoint - The exhibition "Towards the Sea" at the Beijing Grand Canal Museum showcases significant findings from deep-sea archaeology in the South China Sea, highlighting the discovery of Ming Dynasty shipwrecks and the advanced level of China's deep-sea archaeological efforts [2]. Group 1: Exhibition Overview - The exhibition features 377 precious artifacts, including ceramics and wood, discovered from two shipwrecks dated to the Ming Dynasty [2]. - The project has been recognized as one of the "Top Ten Archaeological Discoveries of 2023" in China [2]. - The exhibition is organized by multiple institutions, including the National Cultural Heritage Administration and the Capital Museum [2]. Group 2: Artifacts and Findings - The artifacts include exquisite blue and white porcelain with intricate designs, reflecting the elegance of traditional Chinese art [3]. - Notable pieces include a large blue and white plate with dragon motifs and a jar depicting the Eight Immortals, showcasing the high level of Ming Dynasty porcelain craftsmanship [4][5]. - The exhibition also features the first discovery of "Fahua" ceramics in ancient shipwrecks, which are characterized by their complex craftsmanship and vibrant colors [5]. Group 3: Archaeological Techniques and Technologies - A simulated laboratory is set up to demonstrate the preservation and restoration processes of the artifacts, including desalination and rust removal [6]. - Advanced technologies used in the archaeological project include manned submersibles and underwater robots, showcasing China's cutting-edge deep-sea technology [6]. - The exhibition provides a timeline of underwater archaeology's development in China, emphasizing recent breakthroughs that enhance understanding of the Maritime Silk Road's history [6]. Group 4: Exhibition Duration - The exhibition is scheduled to run until March 15 [7].

Core Viewpoint - The exhibition "Towards the Sea - Special Exhibition of Deep-sea Archaeology in the Northwest Slope of the South China Sea" has attracted significant public interest, with nearly 10,000 visitors in the first two days of the New Year holiday, showcasing the historical significance of maritime trade during the Ming Dynasty [1]. Group 1: Exhibition Highlights - The exhibition focuses on a major archaeological discovery made in October 2022, where two shipwrecks were found at a depth of approximately 1,500 meters in the Northwest Slope of the South China Sea [2]. - The two shipwrecks represent a unique find, with one ship carrying ceramics intended for export and the other containing imported wood, highlighting the two-way trade along the Maritime Silk Road during the Ming Dynasty [5]. - The exhibition features a variety of artifacts, including a significant collection of colorful ceramics, which are central attractions for visitors [8]. Group 2: Visitor Experience - The exhibition is designed to immerse visitors in the deep-sea environment, using multimedia elements to recreate the experience of underwater archaeology [3][8]. - Visitors can view models and artifacts that illustrate the extreme conditions of deep-sea archaeology, such as high pressure and low temperatures, enhancing their understanding of the challenges faced by archaeologists [8]. - The exhibition also includes a section on the conservation of artifacts, detailing methods used to preserve items affected by seawater and marine organisms [11].

Core Viewpoint - The exhibition "Sailing Towards the Sea: Special Exhibition of Deep-sea Archaeology in the Northwest Slope of the South China Sea" showcases the latest achievements in deep-sea archaeology, featuring the significant discoveries of two shipwrecks from the Ming Dynasty, highlighting their historical, scientific, and artistic value [1][2]. Group 1 - The shipwrecks, identified as No. 1 and No. 2 in the northwest slope of the South China Sea, were discovered in October 2022 at a depth of approximately 1500 meters, dating back to the Zhengde and Hongzhi periods of the Ming Dynasty [1]. - The archaeological findings from these shipwrecks are considered a milestone in China's underwater archaeology and have been selected as one of the "Top Ten Archaeological Discoveries of 2023" [1]. - The exhibition features 377 artifacts from the shipwrecks, utilizing innovative display technologies and interactive elements to engage visitors in the exploration of the maritime Silk Road's role in cultural exchange during the Ming Dynasty [2]. Group 2 - The exhibition emphasizes the complexities and challenges of deep-sea archaeology, showcasing advanced technologies and equipment, such as the "Deep Sea Warrior" manned submersible, and the harsh conditions of high pressure, low temperature, and darkness [2]. - It also highlights the importance of artifact preservation, demonstrating the onsite operations and laboratory processes involved in protecting these historical items [2]. - The exhibition is set to run until March 15, 2026, allowing ample time for public engagement and education on deep-sea archaeological practices [3].

Core Insights - In 2025, China's three manned submersibles are expected to complete a total of 314 manned deep-sea dives, indicating a continuous improvement in the application level of manned submersibles [1] - The "Jiaolong" submersible team achieved China's first manned deep dive in the Arctic ice zone in 2025, innovating a collaborative underwater operation model with the "Fendouzhe" submersible [2] - The "Fendouzhe" submersible team conducted China's first manned deep dive scientific expedition in densely packed Arctic ice, expanding the scope of manned deep diving from the ocean's bottom to all marine areas [4] - The "Deep Sea Warrior" submersible executed 18 deep-sea archaeological applications in the South China Sea, marking the first collaborative operation between manned and unmanned submersibles for efficient underwater shipwreck investigations [6] - By 2026, the cumulative number of dives by China's three manned submersibles is expected to exceed 2000, with plans for more domestic and international joint scientific expeditions during the 14th Five-Year Plan period [7]

Core Insights - The meeting of the User Committee for China's major scientific infrastructure "Manned Submersibles and Offshore Operation Mother Ship" was held in Sanya, Hainan, focusing on deep-sea exploration achievements and future plans [1] Group 1: Deep-Sea Submersibles Performance - The "Fendouzhe" and "Shenhai Yongshi" submersibles have completed a total of 221 dives this year, with "Fendouzhe" achieving China's first manned deep dive in the Arctic dense ice area, expanding China's deep-sea exploration capabilities [1] - The "Shenhai Yongshi" submersible has conducted 18 dives in the underwater cultural heritage protection area of the northwest slope of the South China Sea, collaborating with unmanned submersibles for archaeological investigations [1] - The "Jiaolong" submersible is expected to complete 93 dives this year, contributing to the overall deep-sea exploration efforts [1] Group 2: Future Plans and International Cooperation - During the 14th Five-Year Plan period, China aims to organize more domestic and international joint scientific research voyages using manned and unmanned deep-sea equipment [1] - The focus will be on enhancing international scientific cooperation to support high-quality development in deep-sea scientific research, technology development, and equipment application [1]

Core Insights - The user committee of China's major scientific infrastructure "Manned Submersibles and Offshore Operation Mother Ship" announced the annual application status of three manned submersibles for 2025 and preliminary plans for 2026 [1] Group 1: Manned Submersible Operations - In 2025, the "Jiaolong" manned submersible is expected to dive 93 times, while the "Deep Sea Warrior" and "Fighter" submersibles have already completed 106 and 115 dives respectively as of December 20, 2025, leading to a total of 314 manned deep-sea dives for the year [7] - The "Jiaolong" team achieved China's first manned dive in the Arctic ice zone in 2025, collaborating with the "Fighter" for underwater operations, thus innovating a dual-manned submersible operational model [10] Group 2: Research and Exploration Initiatives - The "Fighter" submersible is advancing the "Global Abyss Exploration Plan," organizing the first international joint scientific expedition to the Puysegur Trench for manned deep-sea dives [12] - The "Fighter" team completed China's first manned deep-sea scientific expedition in densely packed Arctic ice, expanding the scope of manned deep-sea operations from "full ocean depth" to "full ocean area" [12] Group 3: Future Projections - By 2026, the cumulative number of dives by China's three manned submersibles is expected to exceed 2000 [14] - In 2025, the "Deep Sea Warrior" conducted 18 dives in the South China Sea's northwest slope underwater cultural heritage protection area, marking the first collaborative operation between manned and unmanned submersibles for efficient underwater shipwreck investigations [13] - During the "14th Five-Year Plan" period, China aims to organize more domestic and international joint scientific expeditions leveraging manned and unmanned deep-sea equipment, enhancing international scientific cooperation and promoting deep-sea research and technology development [17]

Core Insights - The meeting of the user committee for China's major scientific infrastructure "Manned Submersibles and Offshore Operation Mother Ship" was held on December 24, 2023, in Sanya, Hainan, highlighting advancements in deep-sea exploration technology [1] Group 1: Submersible Operations - The three manned submersibles, "Fendouzhe," "Shenhai Yongshi," and "Jiaolong," have completed a total of 1,746 dives, with an expected 314 dives for the year [1] - "Fendouzhe" and "Shenhai Yongshi" have collectively completed 221 dives this year, marking significant achievements in deep-sea exploration [1] - "Fendouzhe" successfully conducted China's first manned deep-sea scientific expedition in the Arctic dense ice area, expanding China's deep-sea capabilities from "full ocean depth" to "full ocean area" [1] Group 2: International Collaboration and Archaeological Discoveries - The international joint expedition in the Puysigeo Trench, utilizing "Fendouzhe," was successfully completed, showcasing international collaboration in deep-sea research [1] - "Shenhai Yongshi" executed 18 deep-sea archaeological dives in the underwater cultural heritage protection area of the northwestern South China Sea, contributing to new discoveries in deep-sea archaeology [1] - The "Jiaolong" team anticipates completing 93 dives this year, continuing its role in advancing deep-sea exploration efforts [1]

Core Viewpoint - The exhibition "Towards the Sea - Special Exhibition on Deep Sea Archaeology in the Northwest Slope of the South China Sea" showcases artifacts from two ancient shipwrecks, highlighting the prosperity of the Maritime Silk Road during the Ming Dynasty and the integration of deep-sea technology with archaeological work [4][5]. Group 1 - The exhibition features artifacts from the two shipwrecks discovered in October 2022, located between Hainan Island and the Xisha Islands, dating back to the Ming Dynasty [4]. - Artifacts on display include exquisite items such as blue-and-white porcelain and gold-inlaid pottery, which have captivated visitors [4]. - The exhibition is structured into three sections: "Discovering the Shipwreck," "Entering the Shipwreck," and "Unveiling the Shipwreck," providing an immersive experience of deep-sea archaeology [4]. Group 2 - A technology zone is included in the exhibition, showcasing models of deep-sea submersibles and lighting equipment, as well as demonstrating conservation processes for artifacts [5]. - The exhibition indirectly presents various deep-sea archaeological technologies, illustrating the successful integration of deep-sea science and archaeology [5]. - The exhibition is open to the public for free and will run until March 15, 2026 [5].

Core Viewpoint - The exhibition "Sailing Towards the Sea: Special Exhibition of Deep-sea Archaeology in the Northwest Slope of the South China Sea" showcases 370 artifacts from Ming Dynasty shipwrecks, highlighting the prosperity of maritime trade during that period [1][3]. Group 1: Exhibition Highlights - The exhibition features a vibrant and intricately crafted cloisonné peacock and peony-patterned jar, representing the exquisite craftsmanship of Ming Dynasty ceramics [1]. - Artifacts are primarily from two shipwrecks, identified as No. 1 and No. 2, which sank at approximately 1500 meters deep in the South China Sea during the Ming Dynasty [3]. - The No. 1 shipwreck mainly yielded ceramic items and a few metal artifacts, while the No. 2 shipwreck included a significant amount of timber, shells, and antlers [5]. Group 2: Technological and Interactive Aspects - The exhibition incorporates a technology interactive area that showcases the complexities and significance of deep-sea archaeology, allowing visitors to engage with advanced techniques and equipment used in the field [10]. - A model of the "Deep Sea Warrior" manned submersible is displayed, capable of descending to 1500 meters to retrieve artifacts using a flexible robotic arm [12]. Group 3: Recent Archaeological Achievements - The exhibition features three newly restored bronze artifacts, including a lotus-patterned bronze plate, a bronze lotus-shaped base, and a bronze candlestick, showcasing the latest archaeological findings [8]. - Some of the ceramic items displayed were recently recovered and preserved using a "soaking and desalting" method to maintain their original condition [8]. Group 4: Cultural Significance - The exhibition aims to enhance public understanding of the ancient Maritime Silk Road's rich culture and promote international exchanges [14].

Core Points - The second phase of the China (Hainan) South China Sea Museum has officially commenced construction, expected to be completed by October 2027, focusing on deep-sea archaeology and showcasing artifacts from the South China Sea [2][3] - The museum, located in Qionghai Tanmen, will cover over 70,000 square meters and aims to fill the gap in specialized exhibitions of deep-sea archaeological achievements in China [2] - The total investment for the project is approximately 798 million yuan, and upon completion, the museum's total area will reach 138,000 square meters, with an exhibition area of 43,000 square meters [2] Industry Insights - The museum will serve as a world-class platform for deep-sea archaeological research, artifact protection, restoration, and international cultural exchange, contributing to the cultural exchange along the "21st Century Maritime Silk Road" [3] - The exhibition themes will include deep-sea archaeology, natural ecology of the South China Sea, deep-sea technology, and cultural exchanges along the Maritime Silk Road, utilizing advanced digital technologies to enhance visitor experience [3] - The project aims to create a 5A-level tourist attraction that integrates scientific education, family vacations, and leisure tourism, supporting the development of Hainan as an international tourism consumption center [3]