Buzz
I’ve previously shared my thoughts on 'Power of Ten,' but the videos were removed following copyright claims by the rights holders. Thankfully, the Eames Office has established an official YouTube channel, currently featuring one video, which offers an authorized version immune to takedowns. If you haven’t experienced this iconic 1977 film, I highly recommend taking a moment to watch it. Below is my 2009 commentary on a now-removed YouTube clip of the film.
For those unfamiliar with the timeless short 'Powers of Ten,' prepare to be amazed. Produced in 1968 for IBM by Charles and Ray Eames—renowned for their iconic Eames Chair—the film presents a straightforward yet profound concept: begin with a fixed scene and zoom outward by one power of ten every ten seconds, transitioning from 10 meters to 10 meters. As the perspective expands, viewers witness the Earth, the solar system, the galaxy, and beyond. Upon reaching 10 meters (the observable universe’s scale), the camera swiftly reverses, zooming inward to explore the microscopic realm and further.
To me, 'Powers of Ten' stands as a cornerstone of educational media. It was a staple in my science classes, and even today, its elegance and impact remain mesmerizing. The film’s brilliance lies in its simplicity: by zooming out and in, it reveals how the universe’s vastness is merely a shift in perspective.
For further exploration, visit the Wikipedia page for 'Powers of Ten' and the official 'Powers of Ten' website. Additionally, take a look at this competition, supported by design blog Core77, the Eames Office, and Herman Miller, which challenges creators to produce a companion video for 'Powers of Ten.'
(A special thanks to Kottke.org for highlighting the original YouTube clip and for bringing attention to the new, official version!)
