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Ask hubski: how does this optical illusion work?

by mike · #opticalillusion
posted 333 days ago · shared by: 8

I've seen this effect several times before, but this is one of the best examples of the effect I've come across. Does anyone know of a good site with an explanation for why this happens? I'd love to know about what's going on in my eyes and brain when I'm looking at this!


by thenewgreen 332 days ago  ·  link
The hubwheel in the upper corner is spinning too. This might have more to do with the gin though ;-)

Not sure on the reasoning for the illusion. Googling "optical illusion is fun though.

by mk 332 days ago  ·  link
It would be a sick joke if this was an animated gif.

What I don't understand is why the top two turn outwards, while the bottom two turn in... the maddening thing is that I turned my screen 90 cw and the directions didn't change!

by Laurelai 332 days ago  ·  link
Oh god my eyes...
by Vincent 332 days ago  ·  link
Are you from reddit, perchance?
by Laurelai 332 days ago  ·  link
Do not even go there.
by insomniasexx 332 days ago  ·  link
OK so my smart friend says that its because the center of your eye focuses on a very small amount and after that circle of focus, then it only interprets motion. Something about the high contrast makes your eye things its moving.
by khaaan 332 days ago  ·  link
but they are not moving!
by thenewgreen 332 days ago  ·  link
Also, try not looking directly at them
by thenewgreen 332 days ago  ·  link
I had that problem at first too. Then I relaxed my eyes and they are most definitely moving.
by insomniasexx 332 days ago  ·  link
I think it has something to do with the way your eye is shaped and when the light comes in through the of the lens it appears to be changing.

Now I'm gunna go wikipedia it and see how close I was.



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