Z is for Zero Gravity, Zero Problems

In most space-faring sci-fi, we accept a number of high-tech innovations must exist in-universe to make the story possible. Faster-than-light travel is a must if your characters are going to check out other planets. So is artificial gravity.

In spite of the perception that zero gravity means cool floating objects and not much else, there are actually a number of major problems facing humans in space. The human body is adapted to Earth's gravity, and sustained weightlessness causes all kinds of physiological problems, from osteoporosis to anemia. We have not currently figured out how to create an artificial gravity field, but when we do, it will surely be technologically complex and energetically expensive to run.

There are all kinds of cool plot possibilities here, whether you place your characters in a contemporary space environment (like  Gravity ) or whether you have futuristic characters grappling with zero-gravity issues during their travels across the galaxy. If you want ideas, check out the Video From Space YouTube channel, and enjoy some very cool videos (like the one below) of the trivial tasks of everyday life made challenging by the lack of gravity.