A penguin slideshow captivated the children, while the adults got a glimpse into scientific research as China's top meteorologist recounted his 1989 Antarctic mission at the China Meteorological Administration (CMA) conference hall on Friday.

Qin Dahe told of his adventure and research experience during a scientific Antarctic expedition carried out on foot in 1989. Qin was the only Chinese member of the six-person international research team.

Qin, who heads the CMA with four other meteorologists, delivered a series of reports on polar areas and climate change as part of its activities to mark World Meteorological Day on Friday.

The CMA will open its doors to the public this weekend, giving access to the weather forecast studio, meteorological satellite model and talks by meteorologists.

The theme of this year's World Meteorological Day is "Polar Meteorology: Understanding Global Impact".

"The theme highlights international meteorologists' focus on polar meteorology and its impact on climate change," Qin told Xinhua News Agency.

"The polar areas, especially the Antarctic, are the least polluted areas and the least influenced by human activities. Research is highly important for humans to understand more about the relationship between human activities and climate change."

The theme also tied in with International Polar Year, which runs from March 1 this year to March 1, 2009. The polar year, launched by the International Council for Science in conjunction with the World Meteorological Organization, is the fourth of its kind since 1882.

(China Daily March 24, 2007)