CASE STUDY

Astronomy Discovery Center

Client Lowell Observatory
Location Flagstaff, AZ
Date Completed November 2024

Overview

The Lowell Observatory conducts research on astronomical phenomena, with a focus on our solar system and its evolution. For their Astronomy Discovery Center, Trivium developed 17 exhibits and interactive multimedia experiences to support its mission to provide science education and outreach to the public.

Visitors can explore space through a variety of interactives and 3D games: trace the journey of their atoms through time; launch their own mission to Saturn's moon, gathering  data in the search for potential signs of life; compare images captured across different parts of the electromagnetic spectrum; and make estimates on the likelihood of other communicating civilizations in the universe. Whether visitors touch a screen, turn a dial, or roll a ball, they'll enjoy an immersive learning experience that brings the vast universe closer than ever.

Challenges

This project required us to develop media exhibits that presented astronomy content in ways that were accessible, engaging, and understandable to general audiences. Meanwhile, we also had to maintain scientific accuracy and depth owed to the magnitude and scope of the subjects. The Trivium team worked closely with Lowell astronomers and educators to develop engaging and scientifically accurate content that is accessible to visitors of all ages.

Creating interactive media graphics and user interfaces to complement the playful and unique environmental design of the exhibit was another fun challenge. To ensure a cohesive visual experience, we worked closely with our exhibit design partners at Kei Space to develop a comprehensive media style guide that aligned environmental graphics with screen graphics.

Additionally, select exhibits needed to be built with long-term flexibility in mind, allowing content to be updated or modified over time by the observatory's staff. We developed a comprehensive and robust content management system for select exhibits where new or additional content can be featured or added over time—including an updatable digital donor wall and a touchscreen interactive highlighting ongoing scientific work at Lowell.

DELIVERABLES

  • 5 Physio-Digital Interactives
  • 9 Touchscreen Interactives
  • 3 Projected Exhibits
  • Custom CMS

CAPABILITIES

  • Layout Graphic Design
  • IR Camera Interaction

Outcomes and Impacts

These exhibits create positive and engaging learning experiences that makes science and astronomy more approachable and exciting for all ages. Through careful content scripting and media design, our collaboration resulted in exhibits that encourage deeper interest in the vast universe.

BY THE NUMBERS

15 custom interactive programs developed and deployed
9 original interactive scripts written by Trivium content producers
2 personalized visitor takeaways — a photo paired with a personal message to the universe and a custom “space jam” of beats combined with actual audio phenomena

COLLABORATORS

  • BBI Engineering
  • EOS Lightmedia
  • Kei Space Design
  • Universal Services Associates, Inc.

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