Published : 2025-02-04
On the morning of February 4, 1999, the Chinese national delegation visiting Antarctica, accompanied by more than 10 members of the Great Wall Station (長城站) Antarctic research team, and the station leaders from Antarctic research stations in Chile, Russia, Uruguay, and other countries, together witnessed the historic moment of the unveiling of the "Great Wall Station" nameplate.
At the unveiling ceremony, Zhang Dengyi (張登義), the head of the national delegation and director of the State Oceanic Administration, stated that as China's Antarctic research activities have always received high-level attention and support from the government and the whole nation, it is important to carry forward the spirit of pragmatism and innovation in exploring and protecting Antarctica.
He also affirmed China's commitment to making its due contribution to the peaceful utilisation of Antarctica for the benefit of all humanity.
China's Great Wall Station in Antarctica was completed on February 20, 1985, making it China's first Antarctic scientific research station.
It is located on King George Island, chosen by Chinese researchers due to its abundant freshwater resources, which could provide a stable supply of fresh water to the station.
The construction of Great Wall Station was completed in just 45 days, after which the research team members no longer had to live in inflatable tents facing harsh conditions, and could move into the better-conditioned Great Wall Station to focus on Antarctic scientific research.
Being at the Great Wall Station feels like being in a miniature city.
There is a meteorological observation field where various meteorological instruments have recorded weather changes since January 1985, accumulating valuable data for Antarctic meteorological studies.
The station is also equipped with transmitting and receiving antennas, as well as a rhombic antenna tower, which act as the eyes and ears of the station. The northern part houses the power station, which is the heart of the station and responsible for power supply.
Additionally, the Great Wall Station also features warehouses and cold storage for food, a dock, and a mini-airport for helicopter take-offs and landings.
Currently, Chinese Antarctic researchers at the Great Wall Station conduct year-round regular observations in fields such as meteorology, ionosphere, upper atmospheric physics, geomagnetism, and seismology.
They also carry out on-site scientific research in fields like geology, geomorphology, geophysics, glaciology, biology, environmental science, human medicine, and marine science.
