Solar System eBook
The Challenge
To create an engaging, easy to use interactive eBook to show kids and their families the excitement of outer space. To instill a sense of wonder around science while breaking the traditionally static book learning format. But mostly, to use compelling AR tech already available with devices at hand in a creative and useful way.
The Outcome
A richly experiential children’s short story paired with an Augmented Reality iOS app that includes real scientific facts and figures embedded into a magical tale led by a modern heroin. Readers are led on a path from a precocious bookworm’s Earth home to the end of our Solar System to collect interactive AR experiences at every planetary stop.
Credits
Illustration and Book Design by Jenica Cruz
3-D Modeling and Character Design by Galen Drew
Unity Development by Kyle Warbis
Written by Shimon Akon
Project Direction by Jaime Swindle
Art Direction
Beginning with an audit of other space books, we quickly arrived at a notion of what we did not want to do– we didn’t want this to be the same rote facts list you can find all over the bookstore. We did want this to be a special experience of discovery. With that in mind, we narrowed in on a modernized look and feel, then got going on developing the narrative and character. Enjoy this sneak peak!
AR Targets
Now the challenge of creating AR targets. We needed 9 unique designs, one for each 3D planet model. What would they look like and how could we ensure sure they're scannable? I landed on the concept collecting "planet patches,” because it fit into the story well. Each were each tested on Vuforia to identify effectiveness... refining by adding stars, unique shapes, and contrasting elements.
