Original Starchild prop from 2001: A Space Odyssey...

For me, one of the highlights of the fantastic Stanley Kubrick exhibition at LACMA on January 10, 2013 was this original 'Starchild' prop from the genre-defining sci-fi classic 2001: A Space Odyssey.

Actual Starchild prop featured in 2001: A Space Odyssey on display

In the 1968 sci-fi spectacular, humanity journeys into space with the artificial intelligence computer H.A.L. 9000 after discovering a mysterious alien object on the Moon.

2001: A Space Odyssey movie poster

The epic movie won the Oscar for Best Special Effects and this ethereal looking Starchild appeared at the end of the film watching over Earth.

360° view of the Starchild movie prop

I don't know what was more disconcerting about this prop, it's eerie lifelike eyes or seeing its skull open, exposing the animatronics that probably moved those same eyes in the film.

Even though it's now 2013, you have to agree that this is a pretty impressive original prop to behold.

2001: A Space Odyssey movie poster

Be sure to stick around in the days to come for more amazing costumes, props and models from 2001: A Space Odyssey on display.