Core Insights - The "Jiaolong" manned submersible has undergone significant upgrades over the past decade, enhancing its capabilities and operational efficiency in deep-sea exploration [2][3][4] Group 1: Technological Advancements - The "Jiaolong" submersible has improved its propulsion system, now utilizing domestically produced thrusters, which have increased its maximum speed from 2.5 knots to 3 knots [2] - The submersible's observation system has been upgraded to a 10-channel 4K HD video system, allowing for better underwater visibility and observation capabilities [3] - The operational support team for "Jiaolong" has been reduced from around 17 personnel to approximately 10, significantly enhancing operational efficiency [3] Group 2: Achievements and Milestones - "Jiaolong" has set a record with a maximum diving depth of 7062 meters, marking a significant milestone in China's manned deep-sea exploration [4] - The submersible has been part of collaborative underwater operations with other submersibles, such as the "Fendouzhe," expanding China's deep-sea exploration capabilities [3][4] - During the "Fendouzhe" mission, China has established a strong presence in deep-sea exploration, with annual deep-sea missions accounting for over half of the global total [4] Group 3: Cultural Impact - The "Jiaolong" submersible has transcended its technological role to become a cultural symbol, inspiring stories and recognition within families and communities [5] - The emotional connection to "Jiaolong" is highlighted by personal stories, such as a child's drawing of the submersible, showcasing its significance beyond just a scientific instrument [5]

Core Viewpoint - The "Jiaolong" submersible has undergone significant upgrades over the past decade, enhancing its capabilities and contributing to China's deep-sea exploration efforts, including recent missions in the Indian Ocean and the Arctic [1][12][15]. Group 1: Technological Advancements - The "Jiaolong" submersible has completed 91 dives in 2025, showcasing its reliability and advanced technology [1][20]. - The submersible's propulsion system has been upgraded to fully domestic components, increasing its speed from 2.5 knots to a maximum of 3 knots, with zero maintenance required over 91 dives [7][20]. - The visual and observation systems have been enhanced, featuring 10 channels of 4K high-definition video, improving underwater visibility significantly [9][11]. Group 2: Mission Achievements - In August 2025, the upgraded "Jiaolong" achieved its first dive in the Arctic ice zone, collaborating with the "Fendou" submersible for coordinated underwater operations [12][14]. - The recent missions have expanded China's deep-sea exploration footprint from the full depth of the ocean to all oceanic regions, collecting valuable samples and data for climate change research [15][21]. Group 3: Operational Efficiency - The support team for the "Jiaolong" has reduced from approximately 17 personnel in 2017 to around 10, indicating improved operational efficiency [17][20]. - The number of dives has increased significantly, with 68 dives in 2024 and 94 dives in 2025, compared to nearly 100 dives over five years from 2013 to 2017 [19][20]. Group 4: Cultural Impact - The "Jiaolong" has become a symbol of national pride, inspiring personal stories and cultural expressions, such as children's drawings and family discussions [24][30]. - The emotional connection to the "Jiaolong" reflects a broader cultural appreciation for technological advancements in China, marking a transition from mere functionality to cultural significance [30].

Core Viewpoint - The event "Deep Sea Classroom - China Ocean 92 Voyage" was held to promote marine science education among students, showcasing China's advancements in deep-sea exploration and technology [1][2]. Group 1: Event Overview - The event was co-hosted by the China Ocean Affairs Administration, the National Deep Sea Base Management Center, and the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, involving over 700 students and teachers from more than ten schools across Beijing, Hong Kong, and Qingdao [1]. - Four venues were set up for real-time video connections between the "Shenhai Yihao" research vessel and students in three locations, creating an interactive science experience [1]. Group 2: Educational Content - Researcher Sun Yongfu focused on deep-sea resources and technology, revealing the mysteries of the deep sea to the participants [1]. - Various educational videos were shown, detailing the development, technological upgrades, and scientific exploration progress of China's "Jiaolong" manned submersible [1]. Group 3: Student Engagement - Students actively participated in an interactive Q&A session, asking questions about deep-sea technology, biology, and geology, which were answered by leading scientists and submersible operators [2]. - Participants expressed a newfound interest in deep-sea science and a sense of pride in China's capabilities in deep-sea exploration [2]. Group 4: Gifts and Recognition - The China Ocean Affairs Administration presented a "Jiaolong" model to Beijing No. 101 Middle School, and submersible operator Tang Jialing donated deep-sea science books to the same school [2].