China is taking the lead in a groundbreaking international mission to explore the Earth’s deepest ocean realms—the mysterious hadal zone.
The Global Hadal Exploration Programme (GHEP), led by scientists from the Institute of Deep-sea Science and Engineering (IDSSE) under the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), has received official approval from the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021-2030). This ambitious initiative aims to transform previously scattered deep-sea research efforts into a coordinated global mission to explore, understand, and protect the planet’s most inaccessible marine ecosystems.
The hadal zone refers to the deepest parts of the ocean, ranging from depths of 6,000 meters down to a staggering 11,000 meters. These extreme environments are characterized by crushing pressures, complete darkness, icy temperatures, frequent earthquakes, and unique life forms adapted to survive under such conditions.
“Venturing deeper is about understanding our ocean so we can coexist with it,” said Du Mengran, a lead researcher at IDSSE. “Global cooperation in these untouched zones will redefine the boundaries of marine science and provide critical knowledge for deep-sea conservation and sustainable use.”
Over the past decade, China has been a key player in deep-sea exploration, making significant technological advancements. In 2014, CAS launched the Hadal Science and Technology Program, which led to a historic dive in 2016 when Chinese explorers reached depths of 10,000 meters in the Mariana Trench. By 2022, CAS initiated the Global Trench Dive and Exploration Programme, utilizing the state-of-the-art manned submersible Fendouzhe (Striver) and the Tansuo research vessels.
To date, Chinese scientists have collaborated with 145 researchers from 10 countries, exploring nine hadal trenches worldwide, including the Mariana, Kermadec, and Puysegur trenches. Starting this year, GHEP plans to unify international research on extreme environments, the evolution of life, and geological processes in the hadal zone.
The program will establish international research hubs, organize joint deep-diving expeditions, and host regular symposia. It also aims to offer training and open access to samples, data, and facilities—particularly benefiting young scientists eager to delve into deep-sea research.
GHEP brings together research institutions from countries such as New Zealand, Denmark, Germany, Chile, France, Indonesia, Brazil, Russia, India, the Cook Islands, Papua New Guinea, Singapore, and Portugal, among others.
“This collaboration marks a new era in ocean exploration,” Du added. “By working together, we can unlock the secrets of the deep and ensure the sustainable future of our oceans.”
