Pet Astronauts: A Retro-Futuristic Tribute to the Apollo 11 Anniversary
- Otávio Santiago

- Aug 25, 2023
- 1 min read
Updated: 1 day ago
Featured in Design Boom, this project celebrates the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing and the thrilling era of Cold War space exploration.
Created in 2020, the concept reimagines a whimsical cosmic journey led by three charming space explorers: Clarinha, a sleek black cat from Berlin; Tubarao, a proud Russian Blue; and Keta, a spirited Shiba Inu. Each pet astronaut embodies the pride and curiosity of their nations, embarking on a symbolic mission through the stars.
Visually, the project draws inspiration from vintage risograph printing, reviving the tactile imperfections and color layering typical of 1960s print production. This analog aesthetic intertwines with a retrofuturistic sensibility, blending nostalgia with forward-looking imagination.
Typography plays a central role — a mix of distinct typefaces evokes classic space propaganda posters, while duotone color combinations add a bold, modern contrast. The result is a design that captures both the optimism of the space age and the playfulness of contemporary visual culture, offering a poetic reflection on exploration, discovery, and the enduring fascination with the cosmos.
Written by Otávio Santiago, a designer dedicated to translating ideas into visual rhythm. His work spans motion, 3D, and graphic design — connecting creativity, technology, and human emotion.
























































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