How To: Create a Predator Missile attack animation in After Effects

The mysterious, still unidentified missile that was seen yesterday off the coast of Southern California is stilling boggling Los Angeles residents. The projectile was seen on November 8th, shooting straight up into the sky, just north of Catalina Island.

Watch a video of it from CBS News

But since no one is claiming responsibility for this mystery missile, let's focus our attentions on something that is known— After Effects rules. And, oh… wait… so does Call of Duty!

This two-part video tutorial will show you how to create an awesome missile strike animation in After Effects. It's the Predator Missile seen in Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2, which is a AGM-114 Hellfire (Air-to-Ground Missile), shot from the Predator UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle). You can make this missile attack as realistic or as game-like as you want, depending on how much time you're willing to spend.

Get the PROJECT FILE (ZIP) to start animating your missile strike— in your own backyard! Or wherever. Your choice. Check out the finished product in the third video.