Canada's outer space program structurally consists of civilian and military components. The Canadian Space Agency is the leading Canadian civilian outer space authority, established under the Canadian Space Agency Act. Canada's civilian space activity is guided by its Space Policy Framework.

The military component is under the responsibility of the Department of National Defence, Canadian Armed Forces and Joint and Combined Space Program. The Royal Canadian Air Force under this authority is responsible for air and space power. Canada's Defence Policy: Strong, Secure, Engaged has a section dedicated to the space domain and is further supported by the RCAF Strategy for Space Mission Assurance. Key contemporary positions on space security include Canada's commitment not to conduct destructive direct-ascent anti-satellite missile tests and Canada’s Recommendations on Non-Binding Norms, Rules, and Principles of Responsible Behaviours.