Space laser communication technology is a major communication technology for space broadband information transmission in the future and has the advantages of high bandwidth, fast and convenient transmission, and low cost. It is the best means to cover the“last kilometer” of information transmission. This study aims to systematically understand the development process of the space laser communication technology. It summarizes the development of research and experimental verification of the technology in China and abroad regarding satellite-ground, inter-satellite, space-ground, and inter-space links. The key technologies of laser communication are studied in detail regarding acquisition tracking, communication transceiving, atmospheric compensation, and optomechanical design. Based on this, five future development trends of space laser communication are summarized emphatically, that is, high speed, networking, multi-purpose, integration, and multi-band. To further promote the research and industrialization of the space laser communication technology, this study proposes implementing basic research plans, focusing on the research and development of core components, actively participating in the formulation of international technical standards, and guiding the development of related industries.