Outline of science fiction
The following outline is provided as an overview of and topical guide to science fiction: Science fiction – a genre of fiction dealing with the impact of imagined innovations in science or technology, often in a futuristic setting. Exploring the consequences of such innovations is the traditional purpose of science fiction, making it a "literature of ideas". What is science fiction? Science fiction is a type of: Genres. Science fiction genre – while science fiction is a genre of fiction, a science fiction genre is a subgenre within science fiction. Science fiction may be divided along any number  of overlapping axes. Gary K. Wolfe's "Critical Terms for Science Fiction and Fantasy" identifies over 30 subdivisions of science fiction, not including science fantasy (which is a mixed genre). Science. Genres concerning the emphasis, accuracy, and type of science described include: Characteristics. Themes related to science, technology, space and the future, as well as characteristic plots or settings include: Movements. Genres concerning politics, philosophy, and identity movements include: Eras. Genres concerning the historical era of creation and publication include: Combinations. Genres that combine two different fiction genres or use a different fiction genre's mood or style include: Elements  and themes. Setting elements. The setting is the environment in which the story takes place. Alien settings require authors to do worldbuilding to create a fictional planet and geography. Elements of setting may include culture (and its technologies), period (including the future), place (geography/astronomy), nature (physical laws, etc.), and hour. Setting elements characteristic of science fiction include: Awards. The science fiction genre has a number of recognition awards for authors, editors, and illustrators. Awards are usually granted annually. International awards. Major awards given in chronological order: Franchises. There are a number of science fiction media franchises of this type , typically encompassing media such as cinema films, TV shows, toys, and even theme parks related to the content. The highest-grossing science fiction franchise is "Star Wars". Space science fiction franchises: