China’s research ship Xue Long, also known as “Snow Dragon,” left a port in Shanghai on July 20 for the Arctic, in an effort to conduct the country’s eighth expedition in the polar region.

Ninety-six scientists are taking part in the expedition. The team will carry out a 19,000-nautical-mile journey, which is expected to take 83 days. The expedition is China’s first operational observation in the Arctic, focusing on the research and observation of microplastics and ocean acidification.

According to Science and Technologies Daily, research on microplastics and ocean acidification are crucial to tackle pollution and global warming in the oceans. The expedition will provide China more scientific basis and statistics, which will help the country to better manage and supervise marine pollution, as well as promoting the country’s ability in environmental protection.

As China’s first research vessel designed for expeditions in the Polar Regions, Xue Long was built in 1993 at the Kherson Shipyard in Ukraine, with a length of more than 160 meters. The ship is equipped with helicopters, research support systems, and emergency equipment, and has already carried out several international rescue operations.