Michael, et al,

Attached is a file containing outline letters (green) projected onto a flat plane using the letters (magenta) hovering above the plane. Using the Transform>Move tool, with Straight Snap and Object Snap selected, click on the lower right corner of the flat plane and move it orthogonally in a straight line. The projected letters (green) disappear. Or, do they disappear? See the image sequence below. The two objects that disappeared are back in image 5.

The hovering letters were outlines made from surface objects (the letters) originally a part of a domed object.

Leonard
(Mac OS 10.6.8)