Chinese research icebreakers complete Antarctic expedition

(ECNS) -- China's research icebreaker Xuelong returned to Shanghai on Tuesday, marking the conclusion of China’s 38th Antarctic expedition which lasted 174 days, according to Ministry of Natural Resources of the People’s Republic of China.

Xuelong and Xuelong 2 jointly participated in the Antarctic expedition, traveling over 33,000 and 31,000 nautical miles respectively.

Their scientific venture involved a range of tasks, including the replenishment of materials and staff rotation at China's Zhongshan Station and Great Wall Station in the region, as well as marine observations and oceanic ecosystem investigations.

Xuelong embarked on the scientific expedition on Nov. 5, 2021, from Shanghai, carrying 154 expedition members. Xuelong 2 started its journey on Nov. 23, 2021, from Shanghai with 101 expedition members and arrived in Shanghai on April 20.