China's research icebreaker Xuelong, or Snow Dragon, sets off for the 38th Antarctic expedition in Shanghai, east China, on November 5, 2021. /CFP

Scientists will carry out hydrological, meteorological and environmental investigations at the South Pole, and monitor pollutants such as microplastics and drifting garbage in the Antarctic Ocean. /CFP

Xuelong will also carry supply and rotational staff to China's Zhongshan Station and Great Wall Station in the region. /CFP

The first batch of 154 researchers on the ship will return to China in mid-April next year. /CFP