This paper explores methods for the creative manipulation of video signals and the generation of animations through a process of analysis and synthesis. Our approach involves four distinct steps, and different creative outputs based on video inputs can be obtained by choosing different alternatives at each of the steps. First, we decide which features to extract from an input video sequence. Next, we choose a matching strategy to associate the features between a pair of video frames. Then, we choose a way to interpolate between corresponding features within these frames. Finally, we decide how to render these elements when resynthesizing the signal. We illustrate our approach with a range of different examples, including video manipulation experiments, animations, and real-time multimedia installations.

"We Are Stardust"" is a digital media interactive installation consisting of two large projected visualizations and a ceiling mounted full rotational FLIR systems infrared imaging camera. Both projections in the installation map the sequence and locations of sky observations by the Spitzer Space Telescope, an infrared temperature sensing instrument managed by the NASA Spitzer Science Center. The intent of the project is to visually map the schedule of scientific observations: What celestial bodies were looked at, when, for how long, and by whom. This document describes the installation and depicts the engineering work behind the design and construction of the experience.