Astronaut Blue
General Information about Astronaut Blue
The hexadecimal color #013D5D, also known as Astronaut Blue, is a dark, muted shade of cyan-blue. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 0.39% red, 23.92% green, and 36.47% blue. In the CMYK color model, it consists of 98.97% cyan, 34.11% magenta, 0% yellow, and 63.53% black. This color is often associated with feelings of calmness, stability, and depth. Due to its low lightness value of 0.16, it appears quite dark and requires careful consideration when used in design to ensure sufficient contrast with other elements. The color has a wavelength of approximately 480 nm, placing it within the blue region of the visible spectrum. Its hex triplet is #013D5D.
The color #013D5D, also known as Astronaut Blue, presents some accessibility challenges, especially for users with visual impairments. Its low luminance value of 0.02 means that it has a very dark appearance. When used as a background color, it requires very light text to ensure sufficient contrast. According to WCAG guidelines, the contrast ratio between text and background should be at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text (14pt bold or 18pt regular). Using white (#FFFFFF) text on a #013D5D background yields a contrast ratio of approximately 14.8:1, which meets the AA and AAA standards. However, using colors like light gray or pale yellow may not provide sufficient contrast, making the content difficult to read. It is crucial to test color combinations with accessibility tools to ensure compliance and readability for all users.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #124559
A slightly lighter shade that maintains a similar aesthetic while improving contrast when used with darker text.
- #025464
A more saturated blue that stands out better against light backgrounds.
- #004B49
A dark teal which is slightly more green, but offers a similar depth and richness while potentially offering better contrast in certain contexts.
Applications
Website Backgrounds
Astronaut Blue can be utilized in website headers and footers to create a sense of sophistication and depth. Using this color as the primary background for a website that aims to convey trustworthiness and stability is highly effective. Consider pairing it with lighter accent colors like white or light gray to ensure readability and visual balance. The deep hue can evoke feelings of professionalism and security, making it suitable for corporate websites or financial institutions. Incorporating subtle animations or gradients can further enhance the user experience without compromising the color's inherent qualities.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Astronaut Blue can be applied to accent walls or furniture pieces to add a touch of elegance and serenity to a space. This color works particularly well in bedrooms or living rooms where a calming atmosphere is desired. Pair it with warm, natural materials like wood or linen to create a balanced and inviting environment. The deep blue hue can help to create a sense of depth and spaciousness, making smaller rooms feel more open. Consider using it in combination with metallic accents like gold or silver for a luxurious touch.
Branding Materials
Astronaut Blue is suitable for creating sophisticated and understated branding materials, such as logos and business cards. Its depth and richness convey professionalism and reliability, making it a great choice for businesses in finance, technology, or consulting. Combine it with clean typography and minimalist designs to create a memorable and impactful brand identity. The color's versatility allows it to be used in both digital and print mediums, ensuring consistency across all branding touchpoints. It can also be paired with brighter accent colors to add a touch of vibrancy and personality.