Reusable launch vehicles are critical assets for achieving round-trip space transportation in the world. As a key subsystem

the thermal protection system serves the main function of protecting vehicle from burning and overheating in the aerodynamic heating environment during atmospheric re-entry. Its health condition is directly related to the reliability and cost-effectiveness of the flight mission. In response to failures that thermal protection systems are prone to during flight

this article first analyzes typical damage modes of thermal protection systems in space shuttles and Starships

such as bolt loosening

structural debonding

and damage caused by impacts from micrometeoroids or space debris. Then

it provides a detailed overview of structural health monitoring technologies related to thermal protection systems

including the thermal protection system temperature monitoring

connection bolt loose monitoring

structural debonding monitoring

structural impact monitoring and implementation methods of other key technologies and their practicality. Finally

the future development trends and prospects of structural health monitoring technology for reusable launch vehicle thermal protection system are  iscussed.