INTRODUCTION
An astrophotography platform for space discovery through visual-first and approachable knowledge
My Role
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.
Duration
3 Months
Team
1 Designer + me
AT A GLANCE
Simplifying space discovery using astrophotography, and sky event tracking. Designed for both casual users and subject-experts
VALIDATION
Space exploration impacts our everyday lives
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.
INTERVIEWS
After validating the impact of space, 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.
KEY INSIGHT
What we uncovered
A clear pattern
There was a common thread across research and interviews; Beautiful images of space capture everyone's attention, regardless of expertise.
Our Solution: Astrophotography
Harness the power of astrophotography as an entry point. Visuals act as a gateway to spark curiosity and share knowledge in an engaging, approachable way.
WIREFRAMES
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.
THE PORTAL
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.
THE LENS
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.
Live event-tracking
App icon badges for delight
DATA VISUALIZATION
Get detailed insights into each event space event
Inspired by a control panel, the ideal viewing times and the equipment guide, ensure you get the best experience. All you need to do is show up.
App Navigation
Earn Badges
Earning badges for events. These badges double up as app icons.
BRAND EXPRESSION
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.
IMPACT
Recognition & Awards
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
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.
