Space exploration is significant for scientific innovation, resource utilization, and planetary security. Space exploration involves several systems including satellites, space suits, communication systems, and robotics, which have to function under harsh space conditions such as extreme temperatures (- 270 to 1650 °C), microgravity (10⁻⁶ g), unhealthy humidity (< 20% RH or > 60% RH), high atmospheric pressure (~ 1450 psi), and radiation (4000-5000 mSv). Conventional energy-harvesting technologies (solar cells, fuel cells, and nuclear energy), that are normally used to power these space systems have certain limitations (e.g., sunlight dependence, weight, degradation, big size, high cost, low capacity, radioactivity, complexity, and low efficiency). The constraints in conventional energy resources have made it imperative to look for non-conventional yet efficient alternatives. A great potential for enhancing efficiency, sustainability, and mission duration in space exploration can be offered by integrating triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) with existing energy sources. Recently, the potential of TENG including energy harvesting (from vibrations/movements in satellites and spacecraft), self-powered sensing, and microgravity, for multiple applications in different space missions has been discussed. This review comprehensively covers the use of TENGs for various space applications, such as planetary exploration missions (Mars environment monitoring), manned space equipment, In-orbit robotic operations /collision monitoring, spacecraft's design and structural health monitoring, Aeronautical systems, and conventional energy harvesting (solar and nuclear). This review also discusses the use of self-powered TENG sensors for deep space object perception. At the same time, this review compares TENGs with conventional energy harvesting technologies for space systems. Lastly, this review talks about energy harvesting in satellites, TENG-based satellite communication systems, Hence, it is necessary to innovate flexible and eco-self-sustaining power solutions to guarantee a seamless energy provision for electronic gadgets and sensors in space settings. Nuclear Power Harvesting for Space Applications Nuclear energy sources like RTGs play a significant role in powering modern-day space systems when solar energy is not enough to meet the energy demands of spacecraft and exploration vehicles during several space missions like Mars or other similar outer reaches of our planetary system where sunlight is scarce [ 71 ]. These nuclear energy sources offer several advantages, especially in harsh space conditions (extreme temperatures and intense radiation levels) where most conventional energy sources cannot operate properly. These RTGs play an This allows them to function on their own for a prolonged time. This makes nuclear power technology an option for spacecraft missions because it is dependable, has a lifespan, and has a high energy capacity. Apart from the mentioned positives of using nuclear energy as a power source for space crafts, there are certain associated negatives with nuclear energy sources, including thermal management and safety concerns. The first and foremost drawback of using nuclear energy sources like RTGs is their radiation emissions posing severe hazards to spacecraft equipment and crew members' health during missions. Moreover, the advanced technology and high-profile materials involved in the construction and manufacturing of RTGs make them expensive, with costs often surpassing $1 million/unit (because of the utilization of isotopes). RTGs provide ~ 100 watts of power, which is significantly lower than the ~ 120 kilowatts generated by solar panels on larger spacecraft. Dealing with nuclear materials requires safety measures of the highest standards for transportation and their proper disposal is a non-negotiable factor that adds much responsibility, mental stress, and complexity to overall regulations of space missions. Sometimes, an unwanted and unforeseen mishap can occur during the launch of a space mission, which could result in nuclear substance release into the environment, leading to direct safety concerns. Even though RTGs can last for extended periods (~ 10 to 20 years), the decline in their power (due to decay) imposes constraints on how long they can sustain missions effectively and once these nuclear energy sources enter in space, it becomes difficult to either modify or enhance their ability, hence, limiting their flexibility to adapt to evolving mission requirements or technological advancements. These obstacles need evaluation when devising missions on nuclear power sources. Integrating TENGs into space missions can potentially help to handle these drawbacks of high cost (exceeding $1 million per unit), limited power output (100 watts), and safety concerns (arising from their radiations and inflexibility post-deployment) that are associated with nuclear energy. TENGs provide a lightweight renewable power alternative capable of harvesting energy from surrounding mechanical sources, like space vibrations, with efficiency levels reaching ~ 28% to 30%. TENGs are designed to be small, flexible, sustainable, and robust, making their integration into spacecraft setups easy without adding much weight to the overall system. The use of nuclear materials involves stringent regulatory requirements, complicating mission planning. RTGs provide continuous power (around 100 watts), but their output diminishes over their 10–20-year lifespan due to radioactive decay that potentially limits their long-term mission viability. Furthermore, launch failures pose risks of releasing radioactive materials, raising safety concerns. Both energy sources present unique challenges that must be addressed in Mars mission planning. The limitations of conventional energy sources (solar and nuclear) certainly require an alternate energy source (TENGs) that could overcome these limitations.