Abstract The results of experimental studies of solid lubricating coatings for space applications, in particular, one of the most effective coatings EONIT-3, are presented. The coefficients of friction of coatings and wear resistance at temperatures from minus 150 to plus 400°C in air and in vacuum 10–6 mm Hg were studied for various combinations of antifriction materials depending on the contact pressure, sliding speed, indenter—disk and shaft—sleeve test patterns. It is shown that in tribochemical process molybdenum disulfide, the main industrial solid lubricant, plays the role of an active catalyst. Optimal and stable antifriction and physico-mechanical properties of the EONIT-3 coatings are observed after two hours of heat treatment at 200°C.