Abstract: LC-based spectral imaging is a novel spectral imaging technology using the liquid crystal tunable filter（LCTF）, which is a miniaturized device based on the electrically controlled birefringence of nematic liquid crystal.Continuously tuning through a spectral coverage is realized using LCTF under low voltages.LCTF-based spectral imaging system is a multi-functional and real-time system with high spatial resolution and spectral resolution,which represents a new trend in the future of optical remote sensor on aerospace vehicles.Problems and prospects of this technology are analyzed according to the present state of the LC-based spectral imaging technology.