The Shiyan 1 scientific research vessel has set sail for its fourth journey to the Indian Ocean, where it will conduct a two-month expedition.

The South China Sea Research Institute under the Chinese Academy of Sciences said Saturday that more than 40 researchers from a dozen Chinese research institutes will carry out research pertaining to marine hydrology, ocean currents, meteorology and biological studies in the Indian Ocean.

The Shiyan 1 is China's best-equipped scientific research vessel and went into operation in 2010. (Xinhua)