STORY: A glimpse into China‘s groundbreaking research icebreakers | Sunny’s Spotlight
SHOOTING TIME: Oct. 31-Nov. 1, 2024
DATELINE: Nov. 2, 2024
LENGTH: 00:02:13
LOCATION: GUANGZHOU, China
CATEGORY: SCIENCE
SHOTLIST:
1. various of the ceremonial event
2. STANDUP 1 (English): SUNNY ZHOU, Xinhua correspondent
3. SOUNDBITE (Chinese): WANG JINHUI, Leader of the expedition team
4. various of the ceremonial event
5. STANDUP 2 (English): SUNNY ZHOU, Xinhua correspondent
6. various visuals of Xuelong
7. STANDUP 3 (English): SUNNY ZHOU, Xinhua correspondent
8. STANDUP 4 (English): SUNNY ZHOU, Xinhua correspondent
9. various visuals of Xuelong 2
STORYLINE:
STANDUP 1 (English): SUNNY ZHOU, Xinhua correspondent
“Here I am in Guangzhou, the vibrant capital of Guangdong Province in southern China. Early this Friday morning, China’s 41st Antarctic expedition team set sail, embarking on a remarkable journey expected to span nearly seven months.”
SOUNDBITE (Chinese): WANG JINHUI, Leader of the expedition team
“China’s 41st Antarctic scientific expedition team has successfully assembled and is poised to set sail. We are hopeful for a triumphant return and successful completion of our mission.”
Over the coming months, dedicated researchers will establish critical support infrastructure for the Qinling Station in Antarctica, meticulously investigate the profound impacts of climate change on the delicate Antarctic ecosystem, and engage in vital international research and logistics cooperation efforts.
The ambitious expedition will be executed with a robust fleet comprising three ships: the research icebreakers Xuelong and Xuelong 2, alongside the cargo vessel Yong Sheng.
STANDUP 2 (English): SUNNY ZHOU, Xinhua correspondent
“Earlier today, we had the unique opportunity to tour the impressive research icebreakers stationed here, providing us with an exclusive glimpse into the daily lives and tasks faced by the expedition team members.”
STANDUP 3 (English): SUNNY ZHOU, Xinhua correspondent
“Behind me stands China’s esteemed research icebreaker, Xuelong, also known as Snow Dragon. Distantly docked is the second icebreaker, Xuelong 2. Before their expedition begins, we are set to board the vessel and delve deeper.”
STANDUP 4 (English): SUNNY ZHOU, Xinhua correspondent
“Here is the welcoming reception area aboard the Xuelong. After taking the elevator to the sixth floor, we made our way to the wheelhouse, where the panoramic view is simply breathtaking.”
“This meal represents a typical feast for the scientific expedition team members. The variety of ingredients is impressive, featuring fresh shrimp, eggs, and an array of vibrant green vegetables. Today’s fruit selection includes succulent strawberries and rich prunes.”
The Xuelong 2 stands out as China’s first self-developed polar research icebreaker, marking a significant milestone in maritime technology. Notably, it holds the distinction of being the first vessel in the world to employ two-way ice-breaking technology, allowing it to navigate through ice efficiently in both forward and backward motions.
Xinhua News Agency correspondents reporting from Guangzhou, China.
(XHTV)
**Interview with Wang Jinhui, Leader of China’s 41st Antarctic Expedition Team**
**Sunny Zhou (Host, Xinhua Correspondent):** Thank you for joining us, Wang Jinhui. As the leader of this year’s expedition team, can you share what your primary goals are for the 41st Antarctic expedition?
**Wang Jinhui:** Thank you, Sunny. Our expedition aims to establish vital support infrastructure for the Qinling Station in Antarctica. We will also conduct in-depth research to understand the impacts of climate change on the Antarctic ecosystem. Our work is crucial not only for China but for global scientific knowledge.
**Sunny Zhou:** It sounds ambitious! How do you prepare your team for such extreme conditions in Antarctica?
**Wang Jinhui:** Preparation is key. Our team undergoes rigorous training to ensure they are physically and mentally prepared for the harsh environment. This includes survival training and simulations to adapt to the challenges we may face once we reach the polar region.
**Sunny Zhou:** You mentioned collaboration. How does international cooperation play a role in your research efforts?
**Wang Jinhui:** International cooperation is essential. We work with researchers from various countries, sharing data and resources to enhance our understanding of climate change and its global impacts. This collaboration is vital for addressing environmental challenges that affect us all.
**Sunny Zhou:** Lastly, what does this expedition mean for the future of Antarctic research and China’s role in it?
**Wang Jinhui:** This expedition is an important step forward for China’s scientific endeavors in the polar region. It solidifies our commitment to scientific research and environmental protection, and it also enhances our contributions to global dialogues around climate change. We hope to foster a stronger international scientific community through our efforts.
**Sunny Zhou:** Thank you, Wang Jinhui, for your insights. We wish you and your team a safe and successful expedition!
**Wang Jinhui:** Thank you, Sunny. We appreciate your support and will keep you updated on our progress!
