Glowing tail/ comet launching from planet (video)

[Rootfort]

Hello,

currently I'm creating concept art for a mod (pc game modification).
Could you help me in creating (showing me how to) a glowing tail similiar to a coment tail with paint?
I found a perfect example in the movie "Starship Troopers":
https://youtu.be/8Rx8_vjbXX4?t=2m11s

I need them to start from a planet in different states (starting, in the middle, reaching the target), they are aiming for space ships.

Maybe from this one:
http://www.tokkoro.com/picsup/2859104-earth-space-moon-planet___cosmos-space-wallpapers.jpg

What I have done so far:

#1 With gradient tool I managed to make a "beam" but it is to straight.
#2 Starting "beams"

 

Would be awesome if you could give me some hints or ideas
Thank you very much.

Cheers,
Rootfort

[MadJik]

Zoom blur is a good star:

[Rootfort]

Thank you.

[Woodsy]

I've seen that movie and I really think you need an animation to achieve that affect.