Optical Illusions take on an extra dimension when they are animated. Sometimes the animation reveals the deception, perhaps by removing the elements that cause it, or by bringing in elements that allow a truer comparison. Sometimes the animation sharpens the illusion. See for yourself!

Moiré Patterns

Moir� fringes are an interference pattern that is formed when two similar grid-like patterns are superimposed. They create a pattern of their own that does not exist in either of the originals. The result is a series of fringe patterns that change shape when as the grids are moved relative to each other.

SVG Gallery

These animated optical illusions are written in SVG, the Scalable Vector Language from the W3C. You will need an SVG viewer; try the Adobe SVG Viewer.

Software Downloads

Download these to your PC (sorry, no Mac/Linux versions).

Counter-rotating Spirals

Stare at the dot in the center for 20 to 30 seconds, then look around you...

PHYS 101 Light and Visual Phenomena

by Michael J. Ruiz, Dept. of Physics, UNCA. The program consists of a number of interesting optical illusions that will display on your screen. This could be of interest to teachers for use in a classroom, to parents for their kids, or just for us big kids ourselves.