Space fiction, also known as science fiction, has been a popular genre for decades. However, there are several alternative terms that can be used to describe this type of literary work. For instance, speculative fiction encompasses stories that involve imaginative, futuristic or hypothetical elements. Futuristic fiction, on the other hand, is focused purely on the possibilities of what may occur in the future. Space opera is a sub-genre of science fiction that often borrows elements from adventure stories, soap operas, and romantic dramas. Hard science fiction emphasizes scientific accuracy and explores scientific concepts in depth. All these synonyms offer new ways of approaching this genre and broaden its readership.