Eli5 why does pressing my palms against my eyes create a kaleidoscope effect?

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Eli5 why does pressing my palms against my eyes create a kaleidoscope effect?

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These are called phosphenes! They are caused by physical stimulation of the nerves in the eyes! This activates the same photoreceptors in your eyes that normally react to light and they send a signal to your brain that interprets as a visual signal. It’s basically eye static!

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