THE ASK
Aero Explorer was developed to introduce Pre-K through 3rd grade students to aerospace through immersive, hands-on learning.
The goal was to:
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Spark curiosity around aviation and engineering at an early age
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Expand awareness of future aerospace career pathways
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Create a modular traveling environment built around physical interaction and imaginative play
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Deliver engaging STEM education without relying on passive screen-based experiences
The challenge: translate complex aerospace concepts into something intuitive, tactile, and memorable for young learners—while creating a system durable and scalable enough for repeat public deployment.
What We Saw
The program was intentionally centered around analog, hands-on learning rather than passive digital interaction.
The opportunity was to help bring that vision to life through an environment where visitors learn by touching, building, moving, and experimenting
Our Approach
We developed a modular experiential framework centered around tactile interaction, intuitive exploration, and imaginative play.
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Translate aerospace concepts into physical interaction
Visitors engage directly with custom-built activities focused on propulsion, aerodynamics, flight control, wind dynamics, and engineering principles. -
Support learning through participation
The experience encourages guests to experiment, manipulate, and interact rather than passively consume information. -
Develop custom-built educational moments
The project incorporated fully custom interactive elements including aircraft and car engines, helicopter rotor assemblies, wind-based activities, and mechanical demonstrations. -
Use the environment to reinforce discovery
Graphics, lighting, materials, and spatial flow were all designed to support curiosity, movement, and exploration throughout the experience. -
Build for scalability and durability
Every exhibit system was designed for transport, repeat installation, and heavy public interaction. -
Coordinate for real-world implementation
Fabrication strategy, maintenance considerations, modularity, and operational realities were integrated throughout the design process.
What We Delivered
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Modular experiential STEM environment
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Fully analog interactive exhibit systems
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Custom-built aviation and engineering learning activities
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Environmental graphics and branded spatial design
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Fabrication coordination and deployment strategy
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Repeatable structures designed for touring and public use
The Outcome
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A more engaging and approachable STEM learning experience for young students
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Increased participation through tactile and hands-on interaction
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A scalable traveling environment built for repeat deployment
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A cohesive experience supporting Aero Explorer’s mission to inspire future aerospace pathways
Key Takeaways
Hands-on interaction turns abstract concepts into experiences kids remember.
