China launches 43rd Antarctic scientific expedition

China's 43rd Antarctic expedition team set off for the polar region on Saturday, according to the Ministry of Natural Resources.

The ministry said in a news release that, carried by the Xuelong and Xuelong 2 research icebreakers as well as the oceanographic survey vessel Dayang, more than 600 researchers and engineers from over 100 domestic institutions are taking part in the mission. The team is expected to return to China in April after completing their tasks.

The ministry said that crew members will wrap up on-site construction and quality inspection for China's new Antarctic facility, the Qinling Station. They will conduct surveys and mapping work for support facilities for a planned research station in Marie Byrd Land, and will also carry out preliminary preparations for upgrading and renovating the Great Wall and Zhongshan stations.