Disney fans got a first look at the refurbished changes made on Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin at Magic Kingdom during a feature on Good Morning America.
READ: RUMOR: Affection Section Petting Zoo Closing at Disney’s Animal Kingdom
The ride is undergoing an extended refurbishment that is scheduled to end in spring 2026. The attraction closed on August 4, 2025, and Disney has shared new images and details of what is taking shape inside the ride building. For the first time, Buzz will be joining the mission.
The Changes
New visual content released by Walt Disney Imagineering shows updated scenes, enhanced ride vehicles, and gameplay changes. Among the changes is a refreshed “airlock” introduction where guests encounter a new figure before entering the ride’s main environment. In the updated queue or pre-ride area, the concept art and on-ride footage reveal a character referred to as “Buddy.” This support robot greets riders and helps prepare them for their mission.
Concept art of Buddy the robot in Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin at Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World – Disney
Beyond the airlock and character updates, one of the major visual changes is a redesigned “hyperspace” sequence deeper into the ride. New projected animation shows dynamic scenes with Buzz Lightyear joining the rider’s journey and updated targets. These visuals replace or modify parts of the existing tunnel effect and offer a more immersive space battle sequence.
Ride vehicles are undergoing a notable redesign. The refurbished vehicles will include handheld blasters that allow riders to aim at targets more freely compared to the fixed guns previously attached to each car. Each handheld unit projects an always-on laser and will use dual colors to help riders distinguish their shots. The new systems also offer tactile feedback and updated tracking technology for scoring.
New handheld blasters and point screens in Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin in Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World – Good Morning America
READ: Rian Johnson Publicly Contradicts Kathleen Kennedy Claim That He Was “Spooked” by Star Wars Fans
Real-time scoring displays are incorporated into each vehicle, replacing the static score counters that were part of the previous design. This change aligns the Magic Kingdom version more closely with handheld blaster systems used at Disney parks elsewhere.
Interactive targets throughout the attraction are also being upgraded. The updated hardware allows targets to react with lighting or visual cues when hit by riders’ blasters. This contrasts with the older static targets that provided limited or no feedback.
Disney has confirmed that the refurbishment includes technology and infrastructure improvements behind the scenes, such as upgrades to projection systems, ride controls, and electrical systems to support new media and interactive elements.
Context
The refurbishment is part of a broader series of updates at Magic Kingdom scheduled for 2026. Disney has stated that Space Ranger Spin will reopen in spring 2026, without specifying a precise date. Industry reporting and refurbishment timelines suggest a reopening window that could coincide with spring break periods.
Testing for the new Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin at Magic Kingdom in Disney World – Good Morning America
Taken together, the changes to Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin reflect updates to visuals, ride technology, and guest interaction. As these enhancements progress, Disney is expected to share further official details leading up to the attraction’s reopening.
What do you think of the new look at the refurbished Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
UP NEXT: Access Media Blames “Review Bombing” as Star Trek: Starfleet Academy Audience Scores Plummet
