This review discusses recent advances and challenges in polymer-based materials for space radiation shielding. Polymer-based materials and composites are crucial for effective radiation shielding in space due to their low weight and tailored mechanical properties. The review highlights experimental and numerical studies on various polymer-based materials, including polyethylene (PE), polyimide (PI), polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), and others, to enhance radiation shielding performance. The integration of nanofillers and optimization of material design are key strategies for improving shielding effectiveness. Challenges in developing multifunctional materials that provide radiation protection are also explored. The review emphasizes the importance of understanding radiation transport codes and the effects of different fillers on shielding performance. Experimental studies show that materials like UPEF/BN/PU composites and PE/hBN multilayer composites exhibit excellent neutron-shielding properties. Polyimide-based composites with bismuth oxide and hexagonal boron nitride demonstrate effective shielding against gamma rays and neutrons. PDMS-based nanocomposites with tungsten oxide and barium oxide show improved radiation attenuation. The review concludes that polymer-based materials offer promising solutions for radiation shielding in space, with ongoing research aimed at optimizing their performance for human health and spacecraft protection.This review discusses recent advances and challenges in polymer-based materials for space radiation shielding. Polymer-based materials and composites are crucial for effective radiation shielding in space due to their low weight and tailored mechanical properties. The review highlights experimental and numerical studies on various polymer-based materials, including polyethylene (PE), polyimide (PI), polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), and others, to enhance radiation shielding performance. The integration of nanofillers and optimization of material design are key strategies for improving shielding effectiveness. Challenges in developing multifunctional materials that provide radiation protection are also explored. The review emphasizes the importance of understanding radiation transport codes and the effects of different fillers on shielding performance. Experimental studies show that materials like UPEF/BN/PU composites and PE/hBN multilayer composites exhibit excellent neutron-shielding properties. Polyimide-based composites with bismuth oxide and hexagonal boron nitride demonstrate effective shielding against gamma rays and neutrons. PDMS-based nanocomposites with tungsten oxide and barium oxide show improved radiation attenuation. The review concludes that polymer-based materials offer promising solutions for radiation shielding in space, with ongoing research aimed at optimizing their performance for human health and spacecraft protection.