Space Security involves the use of space (in particular communication, navigation, earth observation, and electronic intelligence satellites) for military and security purposes on earth and also the maintenance of space (in particular the earth orbits) as safe and secure areas for conducting peaceful activities. The two aspects can be summarized as space for security on earth and the safeguarding of space for peaceful endeavors.

The second, updated edition of this handbook provides a sophisticated, cutting-edge resource on the space security portfolio and the associated technology, applications and programs to help fellow members of the global space community and other interested policy-making and academic audiences keep abreast of the current and future directions of this vital dimension of international space policy. Various dimensions of space security as well as space for security on Earth are described, covering space policy and the geopolitics of space, existing and planned applications and programs, as well as technological solutions.
This second edition covers the recent space and security developments that have taken place in Europe and worldwide over the last years, along with new challenges that must be addressed. At its conclusion, the book provides foreward-looking recommendations, especially in the area of space governance and transparency and confidence-building measures.