Planetary Society Rebrand

Branding, Motion, Print, Research, Strategy, Type Design

Tools: Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign, After Effects, Glyphs, three.js, Houdini, Keynote, Figma

Goal: Bring philosophical and meditative ideas into the visual language of space exploration

Recognition: Two posters were accepted by The Planetary Society and on display at their HQ office in Pasadena, California; ArtCenter student gallery.

The Planetary Society is a non-profit organization focused on advocacy for space exploration and based in Pasadena, California. Bill Nye is currently their CEO. Though the Planetary Society focused on space enthusiasts in general, I wanted to expand that a bit. By exploring the profound human experience of our relationship to the massive scale of the cosmos. Using a primary serif typeface, all brand touchpoints take on an elevated feeling.

Removing “The” from the organization’s name allowed for a more recognizable shorthand. I also designed a special brand style for the Society’s 45th anniversary including a custom modular and variable typeface inspired by planetary orbits. For the 45th anniversary I envisioned a weekend celebration event on Catalina Island for members and donors to come together in a community setting.

Logo reveal animation inspired by the big bang.

Planetary Society posters at the nearby Paseo Colorado outdoor mall.

The logo was inspired by the invention of Lightsail—a member-funded invention by The Planetary Society, enabling spacecraft to propel using only sunlight.

Overview of the identity system, I chose a serif typeface to break the standard of retro-sci-fi many aerospace companies use. In doing so, any brand messaging takes on a timeless feeling aligned with my concept of contemplation about space.

Two-tone business card system.

A manifesto poster for Planetary Society headquarters, serving as an inspirational reminder for employees.

Exterior signage at Planetary Society headquarters in Pasadena, CA. Photography and editing by me.

Building signage at Planetary Society headquarters in Pasadena, CA. Photography and editing by me.

2025 marked 45 years since the Planetary Society was founded. I designed promotional posters for a 45th anniversary retreat on Catalina Island for members and donors. I named the event, “Under the Stars”.

Planetary Society Sans variable weight font animation.

The 45th anniversary identity takes on a distinct brand and typographic voice.

The color palette was inspired by the natural beauty of Catalina Island.

Event tickets for general admission and Planetary Support (VIP) levels of donors. These are samples of a larger printed invitation package, currently in progress.