The 15th National Games of China officially commenced with a torch lighting ceremony in Guangzhou on October 9, 2025. This event included the 12th National Games for Persons with Disabilities and the 9th National Special Olympic Games, showcasing the country’s commitment to sport and inclusion.
Innovative Flame Source from the Deep Sea
What set this ceremony apart was the unique flame source used for the torch. The torch was ignited with methane hydrate, commonly referred to as combustible ice. This innovative source was extracted at a depth of 1,522 meters in the South China Sea.
Journey of the Scientific Mission
The journey to collect the methane hydrate began on September 16, 2025. A scientific research vessel departed from the Nansha District of Guangzhou. It traveled through notable infrastructures, including the Shenzhen-Zhongshan Link and the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge, reaching the Haima Cold Seep by September 18.
The Haima Robot’s Contribution
The Haima robot, capable of operating at depths up to 4,500 meters, played a crucial role in this mission. It had previously discovered the Haima Cold Seep in 2015. During the current mission, it utilized robotic arms to collect the combustible ice and gases from the cold seep vent.
Igniting the Torch
The extraction process allowed sufficient combustible ice to undergo depressurization and decomposition. This resulted in methane gas, which served as the ignition source for the torch. Remarkably, the entire extraction and ignition procedure was completed in just 3 hours and 4 minutes. This efficiency highlighted China’s advancements in energy innovation.
Integration of Solar Technology
After ignition, a photovoltaic power generation system on the research vessel was utilized. Solar energy was converted into electricity and transmitted to the seabed. This integration of technology from sky to sea represents a significant milestone in energy utilization.
The symbolic lighting of the flame using deep-sea methane hydrate underscores China’s dedication to innovation and its national pride as it hosts the 15th National Games.
