The aim of the Space Exploration annuals is to provide a yearly update on recent space launches, missions and results, to be published every September in a format that will be suitable for, and appeal to, the Christmas market. The annual will cover space exploration from a variety of angles, looking back at past missions, reviewing those currently under way and detailing those planned for the future, and encompassing both manned and unmanned spaceflight.

Chapter 1 - The Annual Review, written by Brian Harvey appears every year. It will include details of all satellite and rocket launches in the previous year and satellite recoveries, analysis of developments and emerging trends in space exploration, notes on records and main feats during the year, basic data on all launchers currently in operation, schedules of upcoming missions, anniversaries and landmarks. This chapter comprises approximately one sixth of the extent of the volume.

The invited contributions, authored by leading figures in astronomy and space exploration and which make up the bulk of the annual each year, will cover a variety of topics and are written to appeal to a wide readership. One feature introduced in the first volume "Solar System Log" featuring the very latest in the exploration of the planets, their moons and small Solar System bodies, will be retained for Space Exploration 2008, and will comprise seven chapters. In addition, there will be a special additional section entitled, "Return to the Moon" containing three chapters.