Multi-objective design exploration (MODE) and its applications are reviewed as an attempt to utilize numerical simulation in aerospace engineering design. MODE reveals the structure of the design space based on trade-off information. A self-organizing map (SOM) is incorporated into MODE as a visual data mining tool for the design space. SOM divides the design space into clusters with specific design features. This article reviews existing visual data mining techniques applied to engineering problems. Then, we discuss three applications of MODE: multidisciplinary design optimization for a regional-jet wing, silent supersonic technology demonstrator and centrifugal diffusers.