Chinese scientists have set off from Shanghai for their 26th research mission to the Antarctic.
The "Snow Dragon", China's main research ship in the polar region, has gone through a series of maintenance and technical readjustments. Its new voyage will last about six months, covering a distance of more than 30 thousand nautical miles. This will be the longest mission to date.
Two helicopters are also on board. Both can carry heavy cargos, strengthening the ship's logistical cabilities. The new mission involves more than 250 scientists and technicians, a record high. Scientists from Taiwan are also participating.