Create Rotating Planet Animation from Static Image?

[SonicMax]

Crew,

For this image:

http://members.bellatlantic.net/~vze3yjbu/FullPlanet.jpg

I want to create an animation that gives the illusion that the planet (or celestial body mass...or whatever it is)...is rotating (like a planet.)

The rotating planet animations I have seen (where they only have one static view of the planet), create a shading along different longitudes for each animation frame.

Is this viable?

How would you guys (forum members) make this image look like a rotating planet?

Thanks,

mark4man

BTW - I know what to do in Image Ready once I have my various layers...I just need to know how to construct those layers...thanks.

 

[pixl8r]

Gradient layer mask (on the layer with the planet).

Layers> Add layer mask > Reveal All

Choose the gradient tool and set it for radial. Then click and drag. You will get the idea. Adjust to tase. You will have to do a seperate on for each frame of your animation.

Hope it helps.

Wow JT that almost looked like you knew what you were doing!