Abstract: The neutrons inside spacecraft pose a big potential threat to the safety of astronauts and electronic equipment. It is extremely important to detect neutrons for improving the shielding design of spacecrafts and protecting the health of astronauts. Due to the complicated inner-cabin neutron environment, the neutron detection can be interfered by charged particles. This paper reviews the current status of the detection techniques related with the neutron irradiation environment and its effects, and the technical characteristics of the typical neutron detectors used successfully in space missions. With respect to the development trends of the neutron detection techniques and the current state of the art in China, it is suggested that the further development of neutron irradiation detectors of manned spacecrafts in China is necessary.