Core Viewpoint - The recent visit of 111 students and faculty from Han Mountain Normal University to the Shantou Ocean Center's Nanao Marine Station highlights the importance of marine education and the role of observational instruments in understanding oceanic phenomena [1] Group 1: Educational Initiatives - The Nanao Marine Station has opened a new marine observation instrument exhibition room, which serves as a platform for educational outreach [1] - The staff at the marine station acted as science popularization mentors, enhancing the understanding of marine knowledge through hands-on experiences and interactive learning [1] Group 2: Exhibition Details - The exhibition room is divided into two main areas: a knowledge popularization area that explains the definitions, principles, and functions of marine observation instruments, and a physical exhibition area showcasing replaced instruments such as surface seawater thermometers and barometers [1] - The displayed instruments, which show signs of age, provide a tangible representation of the development of marine observation technology [1] Group 3: Historical Context - Staff members shared stories about early marine observers who recorded hydrological and meteorological data under challenging conditions, emphasizing the dedication and perseverance required in the field of marine observation [1]

Core Insights - The "Marine Geology: Marginal Seas - Past and Future" international seminar was held in Nansha, Guangzhou, focusing on sustainable development at the ocean-land interface [1] - The seminar was organized by the Guangzhou Marine Geological Survey Bureau and involved collaboration with various international and domestic institutions, highlighting a significant global interest in marine geological research [1][2] Group 1: Event Overview - The seminar featured participation from over 100 experts and scholars from 10 countries, including the USA, UK, Poland, Italy, and others, showcasing a diverse range of perspectives in marine geology [1] - The event was conducted in a hybrid format, combining online and offline participation, which facilitated broader engagement [1] Group 2: Scientific Initiatives - The "Euro-Asian Marginal Seas: Past and Future" scientific initiative aims to address Quaternary environmental geological issues closely related to human civilization development, leveraging marine geological data from key countries along the Euro-Asian supercontinent [1] - This initiative, led by the Guangzhou Marine Geological Survey Bureau, has garnered participation from experts across 30 countries and over 50 institutions, marking it as one of the largest scientific initiatives in marine geoscience in recent years [1] Group 3: Research Contributions - Nearly 50 experts from various institutions presented reports on topics such as marginal sea sources and sinks, climate change, estuarine systems, urbanization, and deep-time biogeography, contributing valuable insights and innovative ideas to the field [2] - The discussions included plans for upgrading the "Euro-Asian Marginal Seas" scientific initiative and the establishment of international scientific organizations, reflecting a commitment to fostering a marine community of shared destiny in the Greater Bay Area [2]

Core Insights - The deep sea holds untapped treasures that require advanced technology for exploration and development [1] Group 1: Technological Advancements - The "Deep Sea Warrior" and "Fighter" manned submersibles have significantly contributed to deep-sea archaeology and scientific research, with "Deep Sea Warrior" completing 858 dives and "Fighter" 441 dives as of September this year, showcasing international leadership in operational capacity [2][4] - The "Global Abyss Exploration Plan," initiated during the 14th Five-Year Plan, has attracted numerous domestic and international research teams, establishing a foundation for China's leadership in deep-sea science [4][11] Group 2: Research and Discoveries - The latest expedition of "Deep Sea Warrior" aims to conduct archaeological excavations at a shipwreck site in the South China Sea, utilizing a new universal mapping platform to enhance underwater detection efficiency [5][7] - The "Global Abyss Exploration Plan" has involved 145 scientists from 10 countries, leading to systematic research on nine major oceanic trenches and significant scientific discoveries [11][23] Group 3: International Collaboration - The recognition of the "Global Abyss Exploration Plan" by the United Nations as part of the "Ocean Decade" highlights China's manned submersible capabilities on the international stage [11][13] - Initial skepticism from international scientists regarding China's deep-sea equipment has been overcome through successful collaborations, leading to significant sample collections and research advancements [20][21] Group 4: Future Directions - The "Deep Sea Warrior" will focus on complex tasks such as deep-sea archaeology and rescue operations, while "Fighter" will lead international scientists in systematic studies of global abysses and polar underwater research [27]

Core Insights - The article highlights the advancements in China's Arctic scientific research capabilities, particularly through the recent successful mission of the "Snow Dragon 2" icebreaker, which completed an 83-day Arctic scientific expedition [1][6]. Group 1: Changes in Equipment and Capabilities - The "Snow Dragon 2" is equipped with over 120 sets of advanced scientific investigation equipment, significantly increasing from the previous 40 sets, allowing for more efficient and comprehensive data collection [7]. - The icebreaker demonstrated impressive ice-breaking and maneuvering capabilities, allowing it to navigate through thick ice with ease, which enhances operational efficiency and expands research areas [6][7]. - The onboard laboratories have been upgraded to provide a better working environment for scientists, with improved storage and cold storage designs [6][7]. Group 2: Technological Advancements in Research - The use of unmanned and intelligent equipment, such as drones, AUVs (Autonomous Underwater Vehicles), and ROVs (Remotely Operated Vehicles), has increased, allowing for more extensive and detailed data collection [10][13]. - The research capabilities have evolved to include advanced observational parameters, such as metagenomic analysis, enabling researchers to explore cutting-edge scientific questions [13][14]. - The integration of multi-disciplinary approaches in Arctic research is becoming more common, with a focus on comprehensive ecological observations combining atmospheric, oceanic, and ice data [14]. Group 3: Human Resource Development - There has been a significant increase in the number of highly qualified personnel in Arctic research, with many team members now holding doctoral degrees, reflecting a shift towards a more knowledgeable and skilled workforce [14]. - The spirit of patriotism, practicality, innovation, and hard work remains a constant driving force behind the success of China's polar research endeavors [14].

Core Viewpoint - The successful demonstration application of China's self-developed full ocean depth trace metal CTD winch system, "Haiwei CTD11000," during the 15th Arctic scientific expedition highlights the capability of domestic deep-sea winch systems for polar operations [1] Group 1: Technology Development - The "Haiwei CTD11000" was tested during the 15th Arctic scientific expedition, showcasing its operational capabilities in extreme polar environments [1] - The deep-sea and polar scientific winch system is essential for deploying and recovering deep-sea and polar investigation instruments, indicating its fundamental role in scientific research vessels [1] Group 2: Research and Application - The project addresses the higher requirements for scientific winch systems due to the unique operational environment and precise scientific needs of deep-sea and polar research [1] - Traditional metal armored CTD winch systems are inadequate for clean sampling of trace elements such as iron, zinc, manganese, cobalt, copper, lead, cadmium, and mercury, emphasizing the need for advanced technology [1] Group 3: Future Implications - The successful verification of the "Haiwei CTD11000" provides reliable technical support for China's marine scientific research endeavors in deep-sea and polar regions [1]

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the recent procurement intentions of the South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, which includes 28 items of scientific instruments with a total budget of 610 million yuan, aimed at enhancing marine research capabilities [2][3]. Procurement Intentions - The South China Sea Institute of Oceanology plans to procure various advanced instruments, including the MAPPER-20kU airborne water-land detection LiDAR, confocal Raman spectrometer, stable isotope mass spectrometer, and multi-parameter observation systems, with procurement expected between August and October 2025 [3][4][5][6]. Instrument Details - **Stable Isotope Mass Spectrometer**: A high-precision instrument used for analyzing isotopic compositions in various fields such as earth sciences and environmental studies, playing a crucial role in scientific research [4]. - **Confocal Raman Spectrometer**: Combines Raman spectroscopy with laser and confocal microscopy, allowing for high spatial resolution and non-destructive analysis of materials, particularly useful for molecular composition studies [5]. - **Gas Analyzer**: An instrument for analyzing gas compositions, essential for environmental monitoring and industrial control, providing critical data on gas concentrations and types [6]. Specific Procurement Items - **MAPPER-20kU LiDAR**: Designed for detecting underwater topography changes in shallow marine areas, featuring dual-band detection capabilities and high measurement rates [9]. - **Long-term Deep-sea Buoy**: Capable of continuous monitoring of key parameters like temperature and salinity under extreme conditions, with a data transmission capability ensuring timely data availability [9]. - **Confocal Raman Spectrometer (卓立汉光RTS-LTRS)**: Enables high-precision in-situ detection of chemical compositions in various environments, particularly useful for analyzing microplastics and biological membranes [9]. - **GasBenchPlus+IRMS**: A stable isotope mass spectrometer that can measure isotopes in carbonates and seawater, providing valuable data for oceanographic studies [9]. Research Institute Overview - The South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, established in 1959, is a leading marine research institution in China, recognized for its contributions to tropical marine environment dynamics and sustainable utilization of marine biological resources [13][14]. - The institute has developed a comprehensive research system supported by advanced facilities and a high-level research team, achieving significant breakthroughs in marine science [14][15]. Research Platforms - The institute hosts multiple national and provincial key laboratories and research stations, covering various marine science fields, contributing to both fundamental research and national strategic needs [15][16][17]. Conclusion - The procurement of advanced scientific instruments by the South China Sea Institute of Oceanology reflects its commitment to enhancing marine research capabilities and supporting China's marine science development goals [2][3][18].

Core Insights - The joint marine ecological survey conducted by the Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources of China, and Indonesian partners focused on the North Sulawesi region, expanding previous research areas [1] - The survey team discovered new shallow hydrothermal vents, which support diverse coral reefs and seagrass beds under extreme conditions, providing a natural laboratory for studying marine ecosystems under climate change [1] - A marine ecological observation network has been established in North Sulawesi, utilizing existing observation stations and new findings to collect valuable continuous data on biodiversity and ecological connectivity [1] Summary by Categories Research Objectives - The joint survey aims to investigate the evolution of typical marine ecosystems under extreme environmental conditions due to climate change [1] Methodology - The survey collected over 500 samples, including corals, plankton, environmental DNA, water, sediments, and microplastics, using various technologies such as temperature and salinity recorders, drone aerial photography, and diving surveys [1] Findings - The discovery of new hydrothermal vents and the presence of high biodiversity in coral reefs and seagrass beds highlight the resilience of these ecosystems in the face of climate change [1]

Core Insights - The National Natural Science Foundation of China announced the project review results for the 2025 funding period on August 27 [1] - The Second Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, received funding for 25 projects, including various categories of grants [1] Funding Breakdown - The funding includes 1 National Outstanding Youth Science Fund project (Category A), 1 Excellent Youth Science Fund project (Category B), 14 General projects, 7 Youth Science Fund projects (Category C), 1 Shared Voyage Program project, and 1 International (Regional) Cooperation and Exchange project [1] - Notably, the research team led by Zhang Tao was awarded the National Outstanding Youth Science Fund project, while Kong Fansheng received the Excellent Youth Science Fund project [1] Significant Achievements - The Shared Voyage Program project, led by researcher Jin Haiyan and chief scientist Chen Jianfang, marks the first successful approval for such a project at the Second Institute of Oceanography, indicating a new breakthrough in the institute's capacity for major ocean scientific investigations [1]

Core Insights - The "International Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2024-2033)" has officially launched its first major scientific plan, led by the East China Normal University’s National Key Laboratory for Estuarine and Coastal Research, focusing on sustainable development solutions for coastal areas [1][2] - The plan aims to address global coastal issues by promoting scientific research on land-ocean interactions, providing systematic solutions for challenges such as sea level rise, coastal erosion, storm flooding, water pollution, and ecological degradation [1] Group 1 - The initiative will implement a closed-loop approach of "monitoring-assessment-solution-sharing," starting with a global coastal survey and establishing an open data information platform [1] - The project will integrate multi-dimensional data on climate change impacts, coastal erosion, ecosystem status, water quality, and flood risks to create a knowledge system for coastal land-sea composite system evolution and ecological environment changes [1] - Practical applications will include developing nature-based solutions to enhance disaster resilience in coastal areas and promoting the protection and restoration of coastal wetland ecosystems [1] Group 2 - The plan is spearheaded by the National Key Laboratory for Estuarine and Coastal Research, collaborating with over 120 experts from more than 40 research institutions across six continents, covering interdisciplinary fields such as hydrodynamics, sedimentary landform evolution, marine biogeochemistry, coastal wetland ecology, data information, and coastal engineering [2] - This initiative marks a significant breakthrough in global coastal governance, following the laboratory's previous success with the "Great River Delta" plan, which was selected for the "United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021-2030)" [2]

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the advancements in China's marine research capabilities, highlighting the delivery of the "Tongji" intelligent research vessel and its significance as a state-of-the-art mobile laboratory for oceanic studies [1][2]. Group 1: "Tongji" Research Vessel - The "Tongji" vessel is a 2000-ton next-generation green, silent, and intelligent research ship, set to complete comprehensive sea trials by May 2025, making it a powerful tool for scientific exploration [2]. - It is the first research vessel in China to obtain four intelligent symbols from the China Classification Society's intelligent ship standard i-ship (R1, No, E, I), capable of conducting comprehensive scientific investigations in various marine disciplines [5]. - The vessel is equipped with multiple scientific instruments, including single-beam and multi-beam measurement systems, shallow seismic profiling systems, and underwater remote-operated vehicles (ROVs) [5]. Group 2: Modular Laboratory Design - The onboard modular laboratory utilizes shipping containers as a framework, housing instruments for marine chemistry, biological testing, water quality monitoring, meteorological observation, and rock analysis, allowing for easy loading, movement, and expansion [7]. - Key equipment includes automatic nutrient analyzers, total organic carbon analyzers, inverted phase contrast microscopes, and ultra-low temperature freezers, among others [7]. Group 3: Other Research Vessels - Other notable research vessels include Xiamen University's "Jia Geng" vessel, which is China's first marine research ship designed abroad and built domestically, featuring over 550 square meters of research space [8][10]. - The "Science" vessel from the Chinese Academy of Sciences is the first of its kind with independent intellectual property rights, equipped with various systems for water, atmosphere, and seabed exploration [17][18]. - The "Dream" drilling vessel, designed for ultra-deep water research, includes nine specialized laboratories and is capable of operating in severe weather conditions [31][34].