Escape Velocity 2017

Why does so much controversy surround the genre of hard science fiction? Even establishing a definition has long been a source of debate. For this panel, we will define hard science fiction as literature that uses established scientific principles as the jumping off point for plausible extrapolation that is integral to the story. Is it true that hard science fiction concentrates on science to the exclusion of good character development, emotional depth, and literary quality, or is that a stereotype that can't survive in the current age? What constitutes "plausible extrapolation?" Are the hard sciences becoming too advanced to make for a good story? Do you need scientific credentials to write hard sf? In a field once assumed as only for men, who are some of the women writing hard science fiction? Panelists will discuss the many controversies associated with hard science fiction and weigh in with their thoughts.