The Xue Long 2, China's first domestically built polar scientific research icebreaker, arrived in Hong Kong this morning (April 8), marking a significant milestone in the nation's polar exploration efforts.
The icebreaker, which completed China's 40th Antarctic expedition and supported the construction of the Qinling Station in the Ross Sea, will engage in various activities during its five-day stay to promote public awareness and understanding of the country's achievements in polar scientific research.
Starting today, the Xue Long 2 will be moored at the Ocean Terminal in Tsim Sha Tsui, welcoming visitors and offering them a unique opportunity to explore the vessel. To ensure a smooth and organized experience, a quota of 3,000 people will be granted free access to the icebreaker from April 9 to 12. Interested individuals and groups can secure a visit by participating in an online registration process, which will employ a balloting system due to the limited capacity on board. The registration will open at 11 am next Tuesday, and residents can conveniently sign up through the uutix mobile app, as announced by the event organizers.
The welcoming ceremony for the Xue Long 2 will be attended by esteemed guests, including Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee, Director of the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office Zheng Yanxiong, Deputy Director of the State Oceanic Administration and Minister Sun Shuxian, and Zhang Beichen, the leader of the 40th Antarctic expedition team.
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