In this paper, a new double-layer winding electromagnetic brake for high-saturation space manipulator is designed. When the control system of the manipulator fails, the backup winding structure is enabled to output the equivalent braking force to avoid the failure of the braking system. Based on the finite element simulation platform, the 2D and 3D electromagnetic models of the new double-layer winding electromagnetic brake are established. Through the simulation of the magnetic field distributions and absorption forces of electromagnetic brake when the coil winding is located in different layers of the core, the magnetic field distribution and adsorptive force are analyzed. It has a certain guiding significance on the parameters optimization and structure design of double-layer winding electromagnetic brake for high-saturation space manipulator, which can effectively avoid the failure of the braking system.