I know this is probably not popular, but i like the old rpg's where this kind of idea is probably more familiar. But i thought it would make things interesting if ships had certain values for fuel, atmosphere and supplies. And that the crews aboard the ships needed a certain amount of food and atmosphere and supplies of course to survive a given time in space.
I realize it makes things terribly micro. But to be honest that is really my cup of tea. Though i am hoping if it were some of the devs cups of tea as well, well then, i might stand a chance of getting some rather detail oriented things added for me to micro about.
Anyway, just a thought, even if you say no, it was a rather nice daydream for a bit.
-Teal