The Story Behind MOVA Globes: Where Science Meets Art

The idea behind MOVA Globes wasn’t just a creative leap—it was a brilliant fusion of physics and art. Created by physicist Bill French in the 1990s, MOVA Globes were designed to mimic planetary motion using only ambient light and magnetic fields.

French later partnered with former colleague Shaw Lin, now CEO of MOVA International. Together, they built a company rooted in the intersection of science, beauty, and innovation.

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The Inspiration Behind MOVA Globes

Bill French

The idea began with a spinning top. I wondered if I could create something that would spin using only light. Over time, I combined that idea with magnetism and the concept of a floating Earth. I’m always looking for new possibilities, and eventually, all these ideas came together.

Early Prototypes and Development

Bill French

I started working on prototypes in my basement while using a machine shop from my workplace to create parts. One of my biggest concerns was ensuring the inner globe would rotate smoothly without bouncing inside the outer shell—but fortunately, it worked.

I conducted extensive patent research and built multiple prototypes to refine the design—aiming for something reliable, efficient in low light, and affordable to produce. From there, I began raising funds to bring the idea to market.

The “Aha” Moment

Bill French

The moment I knew it was special was when my wife liked the idea. Many of my inventions are niche, but this one felt like it had broader appeal.

Design Philosophy

Bill French

We intentionally avoided adding lights, sounds, or digital features. Those elements consume energy, increase cost, and distract from the simplicity of the globe. The MOVA Globe is meant to be the opposite—calm, elegant, and mesmerizing.

Building the Company

Bill French

Shaw and I knew each other from Kodak Research Labs. When I learned he had experience with manufacturing connections in Asia, I reached out. His network and leadership helped bring the product to life.

Shaw Lin

I first saw the prototype in 1999 and was immediately impressed. After reconnecting in the early 2000s, I helped raise seed funding, and we officially formed the company in 2003.

Challenges Along the Way

Bill French

Raising funding was the biggest challenge. Investors are always looking for the next big thing.

Shaw Lin

Developing a perpetual-motion-like product was incredibly difficult. We had to refine the design, find manufacturing partners, and continue raising funds—all without a finished product in the early stages.

The Origin of MOVA

Bill French

The original company name, TurtleTech, reflected ideas of slow, steady motion and long-lasting energy—similar to solar power.

Shaw Lin

I introduced the name MOVA, inspired by “motion” and innovation. Over time, MOVA became the primary brand representing our products and vision.

Expanding the Product Line

Shaw Lin

Our first designs focused on Earth, using traditional globe maps and satellite imagery. Later, we expanded into space-themed designs once we developed our own in-house graphics capabilities.

This led to the creation of the MOVA Outer Space Collection .

From Idea to Global Product

Bill French

I’m proud that I was able to turn this idea into something real. I believe these globes will become a staple in homes around the world.

Shaw Lin

Seeing customers appreciate the unique motion and craftsmanship of MOVA Globes validates our original vision. Each piece is designed to be beautiful both inside and out.

Unexpected Moments

Bill French

I once saw MOVA Globes in a museum shop in Tokyo. It’s always exciting to come across them unexpectedly.

Shaw Lin

That excitement never fades—every time I see one, it still feels special.

Looking Ahead

Bill French

My goal has always been to make these globes widely accessible while maintaining quality. I’d also love to expand the range of designs and explore new ideas based on our patents.

To learn more about the evolution of MOVA Globes, visit our About Us page.