I must admit that the idea intrigues me. I have recently played two older turn based games (silent storm and temple of elemental evil) and was suprised how fun they were. However I agree with Max that it would have to be executed really well to work.
I'd probably try to draw inspiration from desktop/miniature games. Axis and Allies aren't the best example since it doesn't focus on tactical aspect, but eg. Warhammer might do it. There are also some miniature space combat games, but I don't recall any names right now.
Just some ideas:
-you don't have to use square (hexa, etc.) grid as a play board. Eg. in Warhammer or Warzone units can move by a certain amount of inches in any direction during their turn. No grid required. This could be applied easily to space (unless you want 2d battles).
-simplify the reality somehow - let's say ships can move and fire during their turn, some ships (corvettes?) could move-fire-move, others could only move-fire, fire-fire or something like that etc.
-ships could have some kind or area of control. if an enemy ship enters this area, the first ship could have a free shot at it.
-etc.
Just keep in mind that turn based games need a lot of prototyping and tweaking until they feel "right".
Anyway if you decide to further explore this area, I'd also love to hear more about it
