China launched its 42nd Antarctic expedition to conduct the first-ever scientific drilling today in subglacial lakes, aiming to study Antarctica’s evolution, ice-sheet history, and natural resources.
Using domestically built hot-water and thermal-melting drills, the team will sample ice over 3,000 metres thick and collect long-term climate and sedimentary data from key regions like the Amundsen Sea and Ross Sea.
China, which has five research stations and opened a fifth large station last year, has been steadily expanding its Antarctic presence, including an atmospheric monitoring station and a telescope for infrared observations.
The expedition underscores China’s goal to enhance understanding, protection, and sustainable use of Antarctica, while contributing to global scientific collaboration. Antarctica ho
