Chinese researchers settle down on Arctic ice

Equipments are loaded and brought to the fixed ice station of the Chinese expedition team, Aug 8, 2010. Chinese expedition team members built a fixed ice station for their fourth scientific expedition in the Arctic Ocean, Aug 8, 2010. A total of 122 scientists, logistics staff, and reporters set sail for the Arctic on July 1, to study changes in the ice surface and its effects on the environment. [Photo/Xinhua]

A helicopter carries an apple-like house, built to defend against polar bears, to the researchers' working site, Aug 8, 2010. The Chinese expedition team built a fixed ice station Sunday for their 15-day expedition in the Arctic Ocean. The station lies at 86 degrees and 55 minutes north latitude, 178 degrees and 53 minutes west longitude. [Photo/Xinhua]