BEIJING (ANN/CHINA DAILY) – China’s latest scientific endeavour in Antarctica reached a milestone as the fifth research outpost, named Qinling Station, officially opened its doors on Wednesday morning.
Situated on Inexpressible Island within Terra Nova Bay, this state-of-the-art facility is managed by the Polar Research Institute of China, which oversaw its construction.
According to the institute, Qinling Station boasts impressive capacity, accommodating up to 80 individuals during the summer months and 30 during winter.
Covering an area of 5,244 square metres, the station stands as a testament to China’s commitment to polar exploration.
Notably, the station’s design holds historical significance, paying homage to Zheng He, a renowned admiral, mariner, and diplomat from the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644).
Its external structure is fashioned after the Southern Cross constellation, embodying a blend of modernity and tradition.
Remarkably, all major components of the station were constructed in China, with meticulous attention to detail.
These prefabricated sections, complete with inner hardware, were then transported to Inexpressible Island for assembly, showcasing China’s engineering prowess and logistical expertise in remote environments.
Engineers used lightweight, high-strength materials on the station, making it able to resist temperatures as low as -6 Celcius and the corrosive environment on the island.
Construction began in December and was undertaken by members on China’s 40th Antarctic expedition, which set out from Shanghai in early November and arrived in Antarctica later that month.
The other four Chinese research stations in Antarctica are Changcheng, Zhongshan, Taishan and Kunlun.
The new station is the third Chinese research base in Antarctica able to operate all year, joining Changcheng and Zhongshan, which were built in the late 1980s.
Kunlun and Taishan stations are currently operated during the summertime.
China’s commitment to scientific research and the peaceful development of the polar regions has seen it conduct 40 expeditions to Antarctica and 13 to the Arctic, obtaining a great deal of scientific data and many samples.