<p>As space technology continues to advance, space robots are playing an increasingly pivotal role in space exploration. This study provides a comprehensive review of the historical evolution, current limitations, and prospects of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies in space robotics. By analyzing technological features and representative applications across different stages of development, we highlight key progress in autonomous perception, intelligent control, human–robot interaction, and on-orbit servicing. We further identify critical challenges, such as environmental adaptability, resource constraints, multi-robot coordination, system reliability, and data management, and outline potential approaches to address them. We also explore emerging research trends in intelligent autonomy, collaborative robotics, and cross-domain integration that are expected to shape the next generation of space robotic AI. This paper aims to serve as a comprehensive reference for researchers in the field and to foster sustained innovation in this rapidly evolving discipline.</p>