JBIS is published monthly, and contains refereed academic papers from all over the world on all aspects of astronautics. This wide brief includes space science, space technology, spacecraft and space mission design, and humanities studies such as the philosophy of space flight.

JBIS has a particular reputation for exploring forward thinking subjects such as interstellar flight, exobiology and the search for extraterrestrial life. It also aims to cover current and planned space activities as well as historical studies.

JBIS is available to Society Members as either an alternative to Spaceflight magazine, or in addition, on payment of an additional discounted fee. Non-member and library subscriptions are available. Individual issues and papers can also be purchased.