While greeting the new year of 2024, a group of Chinese researchers continued on an expedition to Antarctica.

On the final day of 2023, the Chinese-built polar icebreaker Xuelong-2, or Snow Dragon-2, docked at the Chinese Antarctic Great Wall Station and unloaded cargo.

On the first day of the new year, the researchers shared their heartfelt wishes for the year ahead.

"As we venture into the new year, I hope our various research tasks can be completed perfectly. May our voyage be sound and safe," said Xiao Jinfeng, the pilot of Xuelong-2.

"I hope to use our professional expertise to yield fruitful achievements this time," said Tang Zhu, a member of the research team.

"I hope to capture photographs of glaciers and penguins, perfectly accomplishing the mission. Besides, I hope to convey the spirit of exploration in Antarctica to children," said Hou Jiling, another member of the team.

This expedition marks China's 40th Antarctic mission. Since embarking from Zhongshan Station on December 16, the polar research vessel has traversed nearly 3,000 nautical miles, crossing nine time zones. The team anticipates reaching its destination on January 4.