In this paper, the research works related to femtosecond laser based artificial atmospheric modulation are reviewed. The contents start by describing the research progress on photo-oxidation byproducts, energy deposition, aerosol formation, water condensation, and precipitation that are all induced by femtosecond filamentation. Subsequently, the research progresses on laser induced water condensation and precipitation as well as manual lightning control are reviewed. Finally, a preliminary physical picture of femtosecond laser based atmospheric modulation is proposed, and the technical challenges and their possible solutions towards the practical applications of artificial rainmaking in the future are discussed.