Intro
An astrophotography platform that makes space discovery approachable through visual-first storytelling
Partnered with my classmate to take the project from inception to completion, delivering a ready-to-publish iOS app design. Driven by our shared curiosity about outer space, we took on this self-led challenge to make space exploration more delightful. I worked end-to-end, from research through visual design and brand.
- Role
- Product Designer
- Duration
- 3 Months
- Team
- 1 Designer + me
- Skills
- User Research Visual Design Brand Design
Impact
Print Awards 2025 - 3rd Place
(Website + App Design) selected from thousands of global submissions
DNA Paris Design Awards 2025
(Apps Category - Student Winner) for excellence in mobile app design and user experience
opportunity
Current consumer space apps are filled with complex flows and jargon — let's make them delightful + approachable
Discovery
Looking outward helps us understand our planet's fragility, fuels global collaboration, and drives innovation.
Technologies and materials we rely on in medicine, engineering, and communication often trace back to space research.
After establishing why space matters, we asked curious people what their relationship with space is
While space exploration has historically been reserved for scientists and academics, we believe that curiosity about the universe is universal, and we wanted to uncover where the gap is.
At a Glance
Simplifying space discovery using astrophotography and sky event tracking, designed for both casual users and subject-experts
Key Insight
Harness the universal appeal of astrophotography as an entry point.
There was a common thread across research and interviews; beautiful images of space capture everyone's attention, regardless of expertise.
Visuals act as a gateway to spark curiosity and share knowledge in an engaging, approachable way.
Process
Narrowing down the core product features
Although this project had immense possibilities, our fixed timeline meant we needed to prioritize. During the wireframing stage, we distilled the app into three main sections: the Portal, the Lens, and the Profile page.
Solution
Enter the Portal and start your exploration journey
An infinite space where you can swipe, tap, and uncover stories behind space artifacts. We simplify jargon through bite-sized content paired with stunning visuals.
Lens takes you to real-time space phenomena happening around you
From meteor showers to rocket launches, explore events with detailed insights and viewing tips. Plan to witness upcoming celestial events through the monthly Astr calendar.
Get detailed insights into each space event
Modeled after a control panel, the interface surfaces ideal viewing times and an equipment guide so you get the best experience. All you need to do is show up.
App Navigation
An elliptical icon, inspired by an orbit, guides users through the app.
Earn Badges
Earning badges for events. These badges double up as app icons.
Astr outside the app experience
We designed handy widgets featuring stunning space photos and upcoming sky events. Show off your love for space with our specially designed merch and app icon badges.
Reflection
We got feedback on our project from leading industry designers
Designers from Big Tech appreciated that the sci-fi aesthetic was not just decorative but embedded into the interactions and product experience
One designer at Meta shared:
"I love Astr because it gets you to stop doomscrolling. It doesn't just distract—it educates you about space, then invites you to experience it and grow your expertise."
Another designer at Apple expressed a more personal connection:
"My partner's family is obsessed with space, and I always feel lost in those conversations. Astr feels like the perfect way for someone like me to get into it—without feeling overwhelmed."
We knew we wanted to make space feel more delightful. We pivoted the direction several times to get it just right
As we learned more from users, we moved from a content-heavy tool to a more immersive experience. Even our look shifted, from clean and minimal to a bold, sci-fi feel that matched the wonder of space. Building Astr meant creating from scratch, embracing change, and staying open to where the process led us.
