When you start a jigsaw puzzle, there’s typically a goal in mind—complete it! Design studio Nervous System turned this idea on its head with their Infinity Puzzle, which has no fixed shape and no beginning or end. Now, they are continuing the madness (in the best way) with the introduction of the Infinite Galaxy Puzzle 2. Using computer algorithms, they have created a mind-bending design. The puzzle maps to a “real projective plane, an impossible 3D shape where the inside and outside are mathematically indistinguishable.” Pieces can attach to one another from either side, but only after flipping them over. “Just like a Mobius strip has only one surface,” they explain, “the puzzle has no up or down side.” While this is probably one of the most challenging jigsaws you’ll ever work on, you can rejoice—the fun never has to end!

Details

• The Infinite Galaxy Puzzle 2 contains 236 pieces and is made of birch plywood.
• Three special-shaped "whimsy" pieces depict an astronaut, space shuttle, and international space station.
• The puzzle is adorned with a photograph of Westerlund 2 from the Hubble telescope. The image continues from one side of the pieces to the other, you’ll never see the entire photo at once.
• This jigsaw is infinitely reconfigurable and has no edges or fixed shape.

About Nervous System

Nervous System is a design studio whose work combines science, art, and technology. “We write computer programs based on processes and patterns found in nature,” they explain, “and use those programs to create unique and affordable art, jewelry, and housewares.”