The application of atmospheric composition data obtained from spaceborne remote sensors in climate and atmospheric environment research has promoted the rapid development of atmospheric composition remote sensing from visible, shortwave infrared to ultraviolet band, and from channel sensing to hyperspectral detection technology. The requirement for quantitative application of hyperspectral data is accurate spectral and radiometric calibration. Compared with the relatively mature calibration technology for visible and shortwave infrared remote sensors, calibration in ultraviolet band is significantly affected by the stability of the on-orbit calibration device, and atmospheric ozone absorption. Thus on-orbit calibration technology for ultraviolet hyperspectral remote sensing data is a challenging issue that urgently needs breakthrough. This paper presents the review made in on-orbit calibration methods for ultraviolet satellite remote sensors. It highlights the development of on-orbit spectral and radiometric calibration techniques, as well as alternative calibration approaches. The paper also compares the advantages and shortcomings of various calibration methods used in visible band remote sensing satellites, and analyzes the applicabilities and challenges of calibration in ultraviolet band. In light of the development of new-generation atmospheric composition remote sensors, the paper proposes major challenges that need to be solved for on-orbit calibration, with a focus on hyperspectral ultraviolet atmospheric composition remote sensing, which have important guidance for the improvement of ultraviolet spaceborne remote sensors and the enhancement of the calibration accuracy of ultraviolet remote sensors.