This is a great way to use the theme! Having essentially the health meter be a physical object whose placement on the ship matters adds an interesting dimension to the game. Rather than just rushing towards a health pickup, you need to think about the direction you approach it from because haphazard placement makes it easier to lose. The only complaint is that I feel like this game would benefit greatly from a more zoomed out perspective. There is a degree of screen crunch which makes planning movement on the fly difficult.
Great game! I'm excited to see if you expand on the groundwork you've laid!