The global deep space exploration endeavor was pushed forward steadily in 2020. In this article we review the outstanding engineering success and scientific output in the year, analyze the results of Chang'E 5 sampling return mission and Chang'E 3/4 missions in the Chinese Lunar Exploration Program, compare the main scientific goals and payloads of the three Mars missions by US, China and United Arab Emirates, and summarize the scientific findings about the sun and solar system given by the 35 deep space missions operating in orbit. We also review the scenario of future deep space exploration especially affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. We conclude the article with the prospect of future launches in 2021.

deep space exploration  /  2020 hotspot  /  space science  /  discovery