The development of space technology is proposing higher demands on the materials for uses in extreme environment. The present review is divided into five parts

with emphasis focusing on ultrahigh temperature carbides in recent years. Research progresses on mono-carbides

binary carbides

multicomponent high-entropy carbides and their composite materials

in respects of theoretical modeling and prediction

microstructure control and macroscopic proper ties improvement are reviewed. Hardness

toughness and high temperature oxidation resistance of these materials have been enhanced effectively. However

development of highly-efficient fabrication techniques for practical purposes

as well as further investigations on mechanisms of microstructure and properties are still required. Meanwhile

for novel high-entropy carbides

performance improvement by revealing the co-relations of composition and microstructure remains a top priority.