9th Arctic expedition: Entering the circle

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‍A team of Chinese scientists is traveling to the northernmost ocean in the world to conduct the country's ninth survey of the Arctic.

"It's 6 in the morning Beijing Time, and the weather has finally become clear," CGTN reporter Li Juan wrote while riding aboard the Xuelong ship as it entered the Arctic Circle on Monday. "The team of 131 scientists are doing something special to commemorate this moment."

The "special" display Li was referring to is shown in the following picture.

More than 100 Chinese scientists form "9 north 6634" on the deck of the Xuelong during China's ninth expedition to the Arctic. /CGTN Photo

The scientists aboard the ship formed "9 north 6634" to indicate the ship had sailed across the imaginary line that designates the Arctic Circle at latitude 66°34' north.

The word "north" in the formation was a Chinese character.

Li is now working hard on the Xuelong to bring back photos and video footage. The ship can access the Internet only through satellite, which has limited availability. What's worse, she's also experiencing a bit of sea sickness.

But her condition is generally fine thanks to the ship's doctor. More interesting photos and videos can be expected from her as the ship goes deeper into the Arctic.

Stay tuned for more firsthand information about China's ninth expedition to the Arctic Ocean.

Check out the team's initial work in this video.