Dot in Space: Space Cadet Trail

For the 2026 edition of Science Centre Singapore's annual Dot in Space exhibition, we reimagined the visitor experience from the ground up, evolving it from a passive showcase into an active, self-guided mission. Held across the March school holidays, the Space Cadet Trail challenged young visitors to earn their stripes as Space Cadets, exploring 8 digital learning stations that brought to life the realities of living and working in space, the uniqueness of our planet, and the challenges future generations may face beyond it.

Every element from the trail system and station UI to the physical environment and ID mechanic was designed and built in-house, giving us full creative and technical ownership of the experience. The result was an immersive gamified journey that balanced discovery with delight, popular enough that what began as a 2-week run was extended by a further 2 weeks, closing on 10 April.

Cadet ID System

Each visitor receives a unique Cadet ID embedded with a QR code that serves as their personal mission pass. Designed with younger audiences in mind, many without a personal device, the ID saves trail progress on-site, allowing kids to scan in at each station, activate content, and carry their achievements through the trail without needing a phone.

Gamified Learning Trail

Eight digital interactive stations guide visitors through themed learning experiences rooted in space science and Earth literacy. Structured as a mission rather than a tour, the trail encourages active participation at every stop, turning each checkpoint into a moment of discovery rather than passive observation.

Self-Redemption Station

Completing the trail unlocks access to a digital vending machine where Space Cadets scan their Cadet ID to verify mission completion and redeem their reward: limited-edition premium keychains (available daily in limited quantities) or collectible stickers for every cadet. The self-serve format made the reward moment feel earned, personal, and genuinely exciting.