Space AU

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Tropes and genres
Synonym(s)in space AU
Related tropes/genresCyberpunk, Robot, Artificial Intelligence
See alsoEarth AU, Spaceship, Science Fiction
Related articles on Fanlore.

A space AU is an alternate universe where a source set on Earth is transported into space; works are often referred to as "[Fandom] in SPAAAAAAAAACE!" The trope can be a form of crackfic, but often includes surprisingly serious reinterpretations of the most earthbound of sources, particularly historical fiction written or set before space exploration. Spaceships are a staple, and cyberpunk trappings such as robots, cyborgs and AIs are often included.

Common Tropes

  • Many space AUs are also fusion AUs with a canon that takes place in space, such as Star Wars or Star Trek.
  • Some space AUs are relatively hard science fiction, in which the space travel is limited to places where real-life humans already have been or could feasibly travel to. AUs in which characters are cast as NASA astronauts and either sent to orbiting space stations, the moon, or Mars are rather common. An example of this would be the Supernatural fic Dark Side of the Moon, starring Dean as an astronaut on the moon.
  • Other space AUs are softer sci-fi, taking place in the deeper reaches of space, or including technology or beings that cannot be explained with actual science. This is common in fusions with settings which are canonically soft sci-fi or science fantasy, such as Star Wars.
  • Aliens are a common feature of the space AU. These aliens may be OCs, or canon characters turned into aliens.

Examples

Fanfiction

Doujinshi

Zines

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Fan Art

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