Abstract: The continuous application of geodetic technologies such as global navigation satellite system and interferometric synthetic aperture radar in studying tectonic activities, including plate motion, earthquakes, and volcanoes, has driven the formation and development of the interdisciplinary field of tectonic geodesy. To clarify its distinctions from other branches of geodetic disciplines like seismic geodesy, we first review the developmental history of tectonic geodesy and summarize its disciplinary scope. Currently, tectonic geodesy primarily encompasses seven research directions: (1) quantitative separation of tectonic and non-tectonic deformation signals; (2) plate motion and continental deformation; (3) processes of natural earthquake preparation, nucleation, rupture, and postseismic relaxation; (4) nucleation/occurrence mechanisms and risk management of induced seismicity; (5) volcanic activity monitoring and eruption prediction; (6) interactions among different tectonic processes; and (7) the influence of non-tectonic activities on tectonic processes. Benefiting from advances in observational technologies, significant improvements have been achieved in the spatiotemporal resolution and accuracy of surface deformation monitoring. These enhancements have enabled the discovery of numerous scientific phenomena, yielded novel scientific insights, and further promoted the development of related theories and models, providing strong support for the mitigation of geological hazards such as earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. With increasing societal demands, ongoing progress in observational technologies, advances in artificial intelligence, and enhanced interdisciplinary integration, tectonic geodesy is expected to further strengthen its capacity to address key challenges in Earth science, mitigate geological hazard risks, and support national economic development and sustainable societal progress.