How Do You Research Science Fiction Topics?
The term “science fiction” applies to a host of different topics. There is no single theme or element that distinguishes science fiction from other closely related genres, such as fantasy or adventure. Typically, however, science fiction must directly incorporate elements of technology or a field of science into the plot and characters. The scientific and technical elements cannot simply be minor details in the background of the story. They must play a central role in the tale and bring to light important questions to consider. Start by familiarizing yourself with the fundamentals. If you don’t have a solid grasp of the physics of our universe, you won’t be able to manipulate them to create fictional models. “World Building: A Writer’s Guide to Constructing Star Systems and Life-Supporting Planets” by Stephen Gillet and Ben Bova provides a good entry point (see Resources below). Read reputable scientific publications such as “Scientific American,” “Popular Science,” “Cosmos Magazine” a
