To improve the technology strength of geological prospecting and the backward status of geo-equipment, authorized by State Council on August 8th in 1978, The Institute of Exploration Technology was founded. During the 30 years, staff of two generations have been working diligently and creatively to get great progress in the areas of research, construction and management. At present, a geological scientific research institution has been built. Based on prospecting technique, the institute has become a scientific research organization on geological survey. The author recalled the developing course of hard work and reforming of the institute, summarized the reforming of scientific and technique system, geological survey and scientific research. The key fields and preferred directions of geological survey and scientific research for the institute in Eleventh Five-Year Plan Period are pointed out.