Are you ready to see what Space Mountain could really be if only it were updated for the modern era. Sure, the current version for Disney World is a nice retro ride through the dark… but it’s also plenty rough and plenty old. The updated version for Disneyland in California is a fine piece of engineering to fit so much into so little a space. But soon both versions… even the European version… are going to look very antiquated.
Why? Well take a look at Tokyo’s incoming version:
The Tokyo Disney theme parks are operated by a company called the Oriental Land Company. They work side-by-side with Disney Imagineering to put only the very best rides and attractions into their parks. If you’ve never seen pictures of the theme park, Disney Sea, let’s just say it is widely considered the greatest theme park achievement in the world. Needless to say, the OLC knows how to spend money and get the very best out of Disney. So now that they have decided to demolish and rebuild Space Mountain, spending half a billion on the new ride, it’s going to be amazing to see whatever they imagine for a modern trip to Mars.
“Space Mountain, an exhilarating, indoor roller coaster that takes guests on a high-speed joy
ride through space, has been a favorite of guests since the Grand Opening of Tokyo
Disneyland in 1983. This entirely new attraction will maintain its original concept as an
indoor roller coaster, but will have enhanced performance and immersive special effects that
will give guests even more thrills on this exciting rocket ride.The new Tomorrowland plaza will express the connection between Earth and the universe,
representing an image of a future where humans are in harmony with nature. Guests will be
able to enjoy moments of rest and relaxation in this plaza where various icons and other
design elements create a sense of hope for the future. After dark, the area will draw guests
into a spectacular world of light and soundscapes.”
Even if you don’t live in or plan to go to Japan, the news for Space Mountain should be welcomed by anyone who loves Disney theme parks. After all, if this works very well, we might see some new Space Moutains going in the domestic parks around 2030. That’s not a given but it is definitely something to keep on the radar.
For all the latest news that should be fun, keep checking out That Park Place! As always, leave a comment down below and let me know if you’d rather keep current versions of Space Mountain or do complete reboots from the ground up?
Looks like a melting marshmallow cream pie.
Ha! I hadn’t thought of that!
Darn you, Tim, now I can’t unsee it.
Lol, marshmallow cream pie, or not, I think it looks great! Was just riding Space Mountain, recently, and it could definitely use an update everywhere. The indoor windows to space are very much antiquated, and the ride, though very fun, is extremely rocky.
Hope this one makes it home.
EPCOT: Here’s a giant blue warehouse that towers over Future World.
Tokyo: Lets rebuild Space Mountain from top-to-bottom and bring the coaster into the 21st century.