Since the first launch of hyperspectral imaging satellite on August 23,1997, space-borne hyperspectral imaging technology has been developed for 15 years. In these years, rapid progress was made in China. Before constructing the high resolution earth observing system, it is important to review the status of space-borne hyperspectral imaging technology in the past years. The developed country′s future plan should be of benefit to our space-borne strategy. Typical imaging spectrometers are summarized, application capabilities of space-borne hyperspectral imaging technology analyzed, and the prospect of hyperspectral imaging technology is presented. To realize wider swath and higher accuracy, technological innovation will occur for future civil space-borne hyperspectral imaging system. Higher spatial resolution, wider spectral range and rapid data processing technology will be expected for defense and security continuously.