Which statement correctly describes variable stars?
A) Variable stars with shorter periods have lower luminosities, so they can be observed when they are farther away.
B) Variable stars with longer periods have lower luminosities, so they can only be observed when they are close.
C) Variable stars with longer periods have lower luminosities, so they can be observed when they are farther away.
D) Variable stars with shorter periods have lower luminosities, so they can only be observed when they are close.