Abstract: The instrument and lightening subsystem is responsible for the information interactions between the spacecraft and the astronaut, and for supporting the working and living environment of the astronaut on orbit. This subsystem has the functions of data display and prompt, alarming prompt for exceeding limits, manual operation, working-living illumination, and entertainment. In this paper, the general and specific design of the instrument and lightening subsystem is discussed, together with the technical application of the subsystem. Based on the design and its application on spacecraft, a technical road map of instrument and illumination subsystem for future spacecraft missions is proposed.