Inspired by nights spent camping and stargazing, I began asking how navigation could support exploration instead of interrupting it. Orion is my answer—a wearable companion designed to keep users immersed in the outdoors, hands-free, and fully present throughout the journey.

01

Research

Night exploration requires focus, awareness, and freedom.

During my own camping and stargazing trips, I realized that every time I reached for my phone to check directions, the experience was interrupted. My eyes had to readjust to the darkness, my hands were occupied, and the sense of immersion disappeared. This observation became the starting point of Orion.

Existing navigation tools are designed to help people arrive at a destination,
but rarely support the experience of exploring along the way.

Design Opportunities

Through user observation and outdoor experience research, three recurring challenges consistently emerged.

Hands-Free
Navigation

While carrying cameras, telescopes, or camping equipment, users often lose the freedom to comfortably access traditional navigation devices.

Directional
Awareness

Constantly checking orientation interrupts observation and slows exploration. Users need subtle directional guidance without repeatedly stopping to verify their position.

Night Visibility

Navigating in darkness requires illumination, but conventional flashlights provide broad lighting rather than guiding users toward a specific direction.

Design Statement

Night exploration should allow people to stay focused on observation, not on managing multiple tools. ORION rethinks navigation by combining directional guidance and hands-free illumination into a single
wearable companion.