Locus
Space has historically only been accessible only to the best and brightest of mankind. The sole mission was to gain as much research and insight into microgravity and the effect of space on the human body. Now, in 2019, the opportunity for civilians to become astronauts is becoming a reality. Sir Richard Branson’s White Knight spacecraft from Virgin Galactic has already bought its first passenger into space. Add that to Blue Origin’s New Glenn and SpaceX’s Crew Dragon, and you have a recipe for the next space race. With this comes the possibility of space tourism, more and more people will have the opportunity to get this unworldly experience. Current designers have the opportunity to influence the possible environments and interactions that are not present off of the earth’s surface.
What will be the needs of the future Civilian astronauts of planet earth?
The Team
Gwendolyn Leister: Research, Ideation, Visual Design, Digital Prototyping, UX Design, Branding & Interviews
Stephanie Satterlee: Research, Ideation, Product Design, Motion Design, 3D Design, & Interviews.
The Opportunity
Space travel possess the power to unite and advance humanity and viewing the Earth from Space is essential for Astronauts. We aim to create a space window experience that adds a layer of discovery and connection.
The Motivation
The benefits humanity has received from space exploration are immeasurable, as is the return on investment we get from it. This push for space travel, tourism from people around the Earth holds great potential for designers to create seamless, beautiful experiences in space.
The Cupola is one of those places you find yourself hanging out in all the time because all you want to do is look back at our planet. You can’t help going to the window to look outside.
Astronaut Sunita Williams, ISS Expeditions 14 & 15
With survey data from over 70 people in 12 countries around the world about their thoughts and opinions on space travel. Questions like so…
How long would you go to space if given the opportunity?
Do you see potential growth in the space tourism industry?
What excites and scares you about leaving earth?
to gain a better understanding around the generals public’s attitude towards. With added data from interviews and research, we were able to reach a few conclusions about the state of space travel in 2019.
Survey & Interview Findings
Current space technology and habitats is designed for scientific endeavors. With the rise in space tourism there will be a need for human centered design to accommodate civilians in space.
Space travel possess the power to unite and advance humanity.
Being able to view the Earth while in orbit is essential for astronauts.
User Personas & Journey
a Window into Space
the Control
Interact the window interface with a simple rotate and click remote. This remote is personal device provided for each passenger to control the window, as well as store their photographs and data from the trip.
The Screens
Home
Opening screen which displays all of the functions of Locus, while not obstructing the view of the earth.
Star Guide
In orbit, the stars shine brighter than ever. Connect the stars and discover neighboring constellations while orbiting around the earth.
Capture
The ever changing scenery is overwhelmingly beautiful and deserves to be remembered. Take and share photos of the view from the window.
Discovery
New environments are difficult to recognize, but with Locus then uncharted parts of the earth can be brought to light and looked into.
