<p>As humanity’s exploration of the universe continues to advance, micro-scale planetary surface exploration robots have emerged as indispensable tools for space science. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the development of exploration robots both domestically and internationally. The key structural characteristics and applications of various representative robots are systematically analyzed, with a focus on their technological features and performance. Additionally, the paper highlights recent research advancements in novel exploration robots, addressing innovations in design and functionality. Finally, the future development trends and prospects of micro-scale planetary surface exploration robots are discussed, underscoring their potential to push space exploration to new frontiers. This research plays a significant role in promoting the development of China’s space industry.</p>