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 accessible.
Skills
Customer Journey Map, User Interview, Wire-framing, Prototyping, Motion Design, User Interface Design, Branding, Strategy.
Duration
12 Weeks
Design Lead
Rithvika Reddy
Co-lead
Mehak Garg
The Problem
Despite its profound impact on our past, present, and future, space exploration remains inaccessible to most people. The complexity of astronomical knowledge, paired with limited learning tools, alienates the general public.
The Solution
Astr transforms space discovery using astrophotography, VR, and real-time sky event tracking. Designed for both casual stargazers and expert astronomers, Astr makes space accessible by bridging Earth and the cosmos.
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 all our research and interviews; Beautiful images of space capture everyone's attention, from casual stargazers to seasoned astronomers.
Our Solution: Astrophotography
We decided to harness the power of astrophotography as an entry point. Stunning 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 SOLUTION
Astr is designed to be the bridge between you and outer space, let's explore how.
Astr bridges the gap between people and the cosmos through a visual first, immersive, and community driven experience. The core values - curiosity, innovation and connection and are built into our features.
1/3
Enter the Portal and start your exploration journey
An infinite space of celestial wonders where you can swipe, tap, and uncover stories behind space artifacts. We simplify jargon through personalized, bite-sized knowledge paired with stunning visuals.
2/3
Lens takes you to real-time space phenomena happening around you
Explore must-see phenomena, from meteor showers to eclipses, with detailed insights and viewing tips. Plan to witness upcoming celestial events through the monthly Astr calendar.
3/3
Get detailed insights into each event space event
Add an event to your target list and get involved in the Astr community. 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
Level up by earning badges for uploading your images to the community page. 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.
REFLECTION
Working through ambiguitiy and trusting the process
Presenting to designers working in big-tech
The designers appreciated the refined sci-fi aesthetic that was not just decorative, but deeply embedded in the 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.”
Working with ambiguity
Astr started as just a rough idea—we knew we wanted to make space feel more accessible, but we didn’t know how yet. We had no fixed plan, just curiosity and a lot of questions.
As we learned more from users, we pivoted our features and visuals several times. We moved from a content-heavy tool to a more visual, 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.
