China's exclusive Antarctic expedition ship "Xue Long" arrived at Hong Kong on Friday for the promotion and education of polar science.

Founder of the China Polar Museum Foundation Rebecca Lee Lok Sze, who caused the ship to visit Hong Kong, has gone for exploring the two poles for many times herself.

Lee said the main aim of Xue Long's visit to Hong Kong was to let young people learn more about polar science. She also said she hoped the spirit of the scientists would encourage youngsters to face challenges and difficulties in a positive attitude.

Activities during Xue Long's three-day stay in Hong Kong include an on board exhibition about the 20-year long history of China's polar exploration, where about 12,000 citizens will have the chance to visit; a fund-raising evening show and a seminar presented by members of the exploration team at the Hong Kong Science Museum.

With the 137 members of the exploration team on board, Xue Long began its 21st trip to the South Pole leaving from Shanghai on Oct.25 passing by Hong Kong.

The exploration team will sail to the South Pole by Xue Long and spend 150 days there to do a series of scientific survey.

(Xinhua News Agency October 30, 2004)