Space opera

Space opera is adventure science fiction in outer space or on distant planets. There are usually a strong heroes and villains and a very epic conflict. The adventure often moves to many different places.
But, other people have a feeling of nostalgia for space opera. They think these stories from the golden age of science fiction have a special feeling of wonder and excitement. Edward E. (Doc) Smith may be the first important writer of this type of SF. He wrote two series called "Skylark" and "Lensman". These are important early examples of space opera novels. Flash Gordon is an early example of this genre from radio, TV, and film.
Modern examples include: Alastair Reynolds' "Revelation Space" series, Peter F. Hamilton's "The Dreaming Void", "The Night's Dawn", and "Pandora's Star" series. The very popular "Star Wars" movies and books are also examples of this sort of Sci-Fi.