The spectral imager can accurately detect the composition and temperature of the lunar surface and their variable characteristics, becoming a key scientific payload in the new era of lunar scientific exploration missions, which provides scientific data for further cognition of the origin and evolutionary history, resource distribution, and environmental characteristics of the lunar. The existing spectral imaging data of lunar orbit exploration provide scientific reference for human cognition of lunar surface material composition, resource distribution, and evolutionary history, but there are problems of low spatial resolution and few infrared spectral bands for realizing precise exploration of lunar resources and environment development and application. The paper firstly outlines the typical spectral imaging payloads and research hotspots in lunar exploration missions at home and abroad. Secondly, the specific technical challenges faced are discussed specifically for the precise detection needs of lunar spectra. Then, specific solutions and technical approaches are proposed on how to break through the existing technical challenges and obtain higher resolution, more sensitive, and more reliable spectral scientific data. Finally, the development trend, challenges, and applications of spectral imaging for lunar orbit exploration are summarized and prospected.