Small satellite constellations have attracted considerable attention due to their cost-efficiency, flexible deployment, and ability to facilitate multi-satellite operations. Aluminum-based optical payloads, benefiting from their high integration, thermal and mechanical stability, design flexibility, and low production cost, are an ideal choice for these systems. This paper reviews the current uses and recent advances of aluminum-based optical payload technology. It examines traditional approaches for designing, manufacturing, and integrating aluminum-based payloads, and discusses how metal additive manufacturing is transforming these processes, highlighting its potential in future space missions.