Core Viewpoint - The article discusses how Chinese scientists developed scientific instruments during the Anti-Japanese War, overcoming severe challenges and laying the foundation for the development of scientific instruments in modern China [3][4]. Group 1: Challenges in Instrument Development - Resource scarcity was the biggest obstacle for scientific instrument development during the war, as coastal industrial areas were occupied, forcing research institutions to relocate to remote areas [4]. - The migration of research institutions, such as the Central Research Institute and Peking Research Institute, faced significant difficulties, leading to the loss of many precision instruments and research equipment [4][5]. - Despite the challenges, some scientists chose to stay and contribute to the war effort, exemplifying the conflict between talent loss and dedication [4][5]. Group 2: Achievements Under Difficult Conditions - The first high-magnification microscope in China was developed in 1938 by a team led by Yan Jici, using limited resources and local craftsmanship [7]. - The team produced 500 microscopes with a magnification of 1500 times, along with over 300 sets of rangefinders and telescopes for military use [7][10]. - They also created 200 leveling instruments, which played a crucial role in military mapping and engineering projects during the war [10]. Group 3: International Support - During the war, the U.S. provided limited scientific instruments through the "Flying Tigers" and the Hump airlift, which were essential for medical and military purposes [11]. - The Soviet Union's support was critical in the early years of the war, supplying basic experimental equipment to maintain research activities [11]. - Overseas Chinese scientists also made significant contributions, such as Zhao Zhongyao, who safely transported valuable materials for nuclear physics research [12]. Group 4: Legacy and Impact on Post-War Development - The technological legacy from the war period directly influenced post-war scientific instrument development in China, with techniques and knowledge being passed down [13]. - The training of talented scientists during the war, such as Yang Zhenning and Li Zhengdao, laid the groundwork for future advancements in various scientific fields [13]. - The spirit of self-reliance and hard work fostered during the war became a driving force for China's scientific policies and technological independence [13][17]. Group 5: Post-War Instrument Industry Development - After the war, China's scientific instrument development relied heavily on Soviet assistance, leading to the establishment of key manufacturing facilities [15]. - The 1960s and 1970s marked a shift towards independent innovation, with significant achievements in precision instruments and high-energy physics [15][16]. - The reform and opening-up period brought new opportunities for the scientific instrument industry, with initiatives like the "863 Program" supporting high-end instrument research [16].