Abstract:The South and North poles are cold sources of the Earth system. The local climate and environment in polar regions have experienced rapid change under global warming. The development of technologies for the detection of the polar environment can provide critical support for the understanding of mechanisms of rapid climate change and the participation in international polar governance. Technologies for the detection of the polar environment have been seen considerable development in the past four decades since China engaged in polar expeditions. This study introduces the domestic and international development process and the current status of the related technologies. The highest national priorities of critical technologies and equipment for the detection of the polar environment are conceived with respect to a new era of development.