China has published its first series of books on the contemporary and modern history of Chinese science and technology.

The series include 27 history books as well as nine documents and dictionaries, among which 21 books have already been published. The rest are scheduled to come off the press within the year.

At a news briefing organized by the Chinese Academy of Sciences(CAS) Thursday, CAS President Lu Yongxiang said, "Chinese scientists and strategists could learn much from the history of our science and technology development."

"Historical experience and lessons would be beneficial to our current efforts to build up the nationwide innovation system," Lu said, who is also chief editor for the series.

The science series depict a comprehensive history of science in China, including the history of mathematics, science associations, the atom bomb and man-made satellite projects, technological transfer from the former Soviet Union and state science policies.

More than 100 science historians are contributing to the science history series.

(Xinhua News Agency March 17, 2006)