China launches its 32nd Antarctic expedition

China's 32nd Antarctic expedition began on Saturday morning as the research vessel and icebreaker Xuelong, or Snow Dragon, left a Shanghai dock. A team of 277 members between 22 and 61 years of age from more than 80 domestic institutions will make the 159-day round trip of 30,000 nautical miles (55,500 kilometers).

During the mission, researchers will conduct a final survey for the country's fifth Antarctic station site at Victoria Land on the Ross Sea, mapping the site and assessing the ecological and environmental impacts, according to the team's deputy chief Sun Bo.

Team members will also conduct research around Changcheng, Zhongshan, Taishan and Kunlun stations, as well as Prydz Bay, the Ross Sea, the Amundsen Sea and the Antarctic Peninsula.