Plasma assisted processes have become more and more important in surface treatments applied to different domains. For example, thin metallic films, dielectric layers or hard coatings with functional properties related to the material structure and composition are widely used in different fields of applications. Nowadays, multifunctional coatings are also highly required. For example, sustainable activated filters, protective layer to reduce system ageing, as well as combined superhydrophobic, anti-fouling and resistant coatings are expected in various terrestrial applications. Nanocomposite thin films i.e. coatings of matrix- embedded nanoparticles are potential candidates as they are exhibiting multifunctional properties related to the matrix and the nanoparticles and, especially, their concentration, size, shape, and distribution in the coating. Different plasma strategies are developed. This presentation aims to review different plasma assisted technologies to form innovative coatings and their potential impacts for space-based systems with a specific focus on safer-by-design methods.