THz wave lies in the region between the microwave and infrared range in the electromagnetic spectrum. There are unique advantages for THz wave in the space research and application field. THz remote sensing instruments can provide a new perspective for the exploration of the earth′s atmosphere. As a result, THz technology has a good prospection the field of atmospheric science. The main applications of THz technology in the field of atmospheric sounding were introduced. The current research status of THz atmospheric observation instruments at home and abroad were summarized. By comparison and analysis of key parameters of each instrument, the development trend and the development prospect of THz instruments for atmospheric observation were summarized. Meanwhile, the suggestions for developing THz atmospheric remote sensing technology were presented.