Long ago and far away (clear back in 1948) a very pretty young singer and her piano accompanist did a musical number on the (black & white) TV. In the background was a set consisting of building outlines against a background of twinkling stars.
When she was done, the host walked in to compliment her performance. He said she looked stunning against the background. She turned and looked at it. “But what makes the stars twinkle like that?” she asked. “Surely they aren’t real? But their light varies, just like real ones!”
The host smiled and gave in to the chance to reveal a bit of entertainment special effects magic. One of the TV cameras already was wheeled into the back stage, and he asked the program director to cut to that camera. Then he directed the singer’s attention to the studio monitor to see what that camera was showing. “It’s really complex!” he gushed.
There, in back of the ‘sky’ stood a man who was rotating a center-pivoted 6-foot board that had a string of Christmas lights attached, using varied speeds. The lights illuminated small holes drilled through the ‘sky’ backdrop. It was a simple trick, but a VERY effective illusion. Then at only 4 years of age, I never forgot how easy it is to fool the eye.
stairsteppublishing almost 2 years ago
They don’t go where they are told to go. They go where they can find room, afterall it is really crowded out there.
littlejohn Premium Member almost 2 years ago
It’s the stardust from all those stars that make people explore their farthest dreams.
jagedlo almost 2 years ago
“Star Destinies” by Jimbo Gumbo!
1953Baby almost 2 years ago
And isn’t it amazing that the sky in this cartoon is just like the new photos coming from out there!!!
EnlilEnkiEa almost 2 years ago
I think he’s referring to Hollyweird.
Nubmaeme almost 2 years ago
What if what we think are stars are really just holes punched in the lid so we can breathe?!
AStarofDestiny almost 2 years ago
I thought they received assigned seating from God!
raybarb44 almost 2 years ago
Just like humans…..
SrTechWriter almost 2 years ago
Long ago and far away (clear back in 1948) a very pretty young singer and her piano accompanist did a musical number on the (black & white) TV. In the background was a set consisting of building outlines against a background of twinkling stars.
When she was done, the host walked in to compliment her performance. He said she looked stunning against the background. She turned and looked at it. “But what makes the stars twinkle like that?” she asked. “Surely they aren’t real? But their light varies, just like real ones!”
The host smiled and gave in to the chance to reveal a bit of entertainment special effects magic. One of the TV cameras already was wheeled into the back stage, and he asked the program director to cut to that camera. Then he directed the singer’s attention to the studio monitor to see what that camera was showing. “It’s really complex!” he gushed.
There, in back of the ‘sky’ stood a man who was rotating a center-pivoted 6-foot board that had a string of Christmas lights attached, using varied speeds. The lights illuminated small holes drilled through the ‘sky’ backdrop. It was a simple trick, but a VERY effective illusion. Then at only 4 years of age, I never forgot how easy it is to fool the eye.
Thorby almost 2 years ago
Jimbo, Neil DeGrasse Tyson wants a word with you.
hagarthehorrible almost 2 years ago
A welcome change from the theatrics of peekaboo.
eced52 almost 2 years ago
According to science, they were just randomly scattered, but I believe they were all given their place by God.