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Web application that aims to utilize the satellite imagery and live video feeds from the Internation Space Station for educational purposes.
World Journal is a web application that leverages satellite imagery and live video feeds from the International Space Station (ISS) to provide educational content, fostering a deeper understanding of Earth’s dynamics. The design challenge was to create a service that could utilize the hundreds of unused satellite images that were taken weekly by the International Space Station. All of these images were free for public use but remained unused and many of them unseen.
Dan Barstow, Educational Manager for the International Space Station and Frank White, space philosopher and author of the Overview Effect sat in as reviewers of this design challenge and offered their comments and feedback. It was an incredible experience to be able to showcase my work to such esteemed guests.
Methods & Tools
Secondary Research, Adobe illustrator, Canva, Panel Review
Role
Product Designer
Duration
1 Week
Under-utilized Photos
Unseen Photos
No Emotional Connection
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Concept Proposal
NASA’s “Windows on Earth” site features satellite images, regularly updated with timelapse videos and curated photo albums. Despite these additions, the majority of the images and videos remain underutilized. Since these images are freely available, there is a significant opportunity to repurpose them in ways that engage a larger audience.
One unique phenomenon associated with viewing Earth from space is the “Overview Effect,” which describes a cognitive shift in awareness that astronauts experience. Frank White, the philosopher behind the term, emphasized the profound emotional impact this shift has on astronauts, encouraging a deeper connection to Earth’s interconnectedness. I aimed to bring this perspective into the user experience of these images.
Factors that contribute to the Overview Effect
Building on insights from the “Windows on Earth” platform, I set out to design an experience that transforms how people interact with space-based imagery. The concept was to immerse users in live footage from the ISS while providing rich contextual overlays, such as news, events, and personal stories related to their location. This design was rooted in the desire to invoke the “Overview Effect” — an emotional and cognitive shift — and connect users to the bigger picture of global interconnectedness.
UI concept sketch
The contextual data for each location could be gathered from various services: NASA’s API for live ISS tracking and Earth imagery, social media and news outlets for real-time updates, and flight or marine traffic services for travel information. These existing public services could provide a comprehensive, dynamic view of the locations shown in the satellite imagery.
Resources for contextual information
The concept proposed a web platform that streams live Earth footage from the International Space Station. The video feed would be overlaid with location-specific content, such as local news, social events, and travel details. Users could also share their own stories related to specific locations. When live footage wasn’t available, the platform would display relevant images. Additionally, past stories and historical information tied to locations would be featured, positioning the platform as both an educational tool and a resource for journalism.
