Space opera is a subgenre of science fiction that emphasizes romantic, often melodramatic adventure, set mainly or entirely in outer space, generally involving conflict between opponents possessing advanced technologies and abilities.

Perhaps the most significant trait of space opera is that settings, characters, battles, powers, and themes tend to be very large-scale.

Sometimes the term space opera is used pejoratively to denote bad quality science fiction, but its meaning can differ, often describing a particular science fiction genre without any value judgement.

Examples include:

The Ender's Game series - Orson Scott Card

The Vorkosigan Saga - Lois McMaster Bujold

Pandora's Star - Peter F. Hamilton

Star Wars

Star Trek

Battlestar Galactica

Farscape