Abstract: Inspired by the mysteries of the universe, humans have been exploring outer space since the 1950s. 
Proceeding from 1-day (Shenzhou 5) to 6-month (Shenzhou 15) missions, one of the perspectives of Chinese space exploration has shifted from not just how to safely survive but to how to healthily live in outer space. In current review, we ntroduce some common psychological stressors during space missions and how researchers simulate these stressors on the ground firstly. Then, we briefly introduce classic and state-of-the-art measurements and tools used in measuring the mental state of crew members. Self-reporting questionnaires, behavioral observations, and computerized tests are widely used as measurement strategies in this field. We discuss, respectively, how challenging missions negatively and positively affect crew members. As psychological issues are sensitive to individual and cultural backgrounds, we focus on Chinese crew members and potential cultural differences. Finally, we propose some potential future directions this research could evolve based on previous findings.

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