A New Era for Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin
Guests at Magic Kingdom Park are in for a surprise as they ride the Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover. From this elevated vantage point, they can witness the extensive demolition work taking place at Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin, a beloved attraction that is undergoing a significant transformation.
Ongoing Refurbishment
The ride officially closed in August 2025 for what Walt Disney World Resort has termed a comprehensive refurbishment. Recent images shared by parkgoers reveal a scene of torn-up concrete and exposed construction zones, with heavy machinery visible at the entrance. While ground-level barriers obscure the view for pedestrians, the PeopleMover offers an unobstructed look at the ongoing changes.
Disney has announced a target reopening in spring 2026, although a specific date has yet to be confirmed. Given the current state of construction, it appears that the reopening may trend toward late spring rather than early spring.
Ambitious Update Plans
Originally opened in 1998, Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin is nearly three decades old. Over the years, technology and guest expectations have evolved dramatically, especially after the introduction of Toy Story Mania! at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, which showcased advanced interactive gameplay systems.
To bridge this gap, Walt Disney Imagineering is implementing substantial updates. Among the most notable changes is the installation of modernized laser blasters in the ride vehicles. The current handheld shooters will be replaced with more responsive and accurate equipment, enhancing the overall guest experience. Additionally, improved interactive targets will provide better feedback and scoring opportunities, making the ride more engaging.
Beyond technological upgrades, Imagineers are adding new scenes and introducing a completely new animatronic character named Buddy. This character will serve an instructional role, guiding riders on how to operate their laser blasters effectively and maximize their scores as they battle the infamous Emperor Zurg across the galaxy.
Construction Progress Visible From Above
Social media has become a valuable source of real-time updates on the construction progress. Users on platforms like X (formerly Twitter) have shared photos showcasing the demolition in progress. One user, @kdodgers24, posted images that clearly depict the ongoing work, expressing skepticism about the ride reopening anytime soon.
Another user, @Thesolardude, echoed these sentiments, sharing similar observations from a recent visit. The visible destruction at the entrance suggests that Disney is still far from completing the project. However, the exterior work could indicate that crews have moved on to reconstructing the entrance area, which may mean that interior modifications are further along than they appear.
What the Timeline Means
The spring 2026 target window for reopening leaves room for speculation. Spring technically spans from late March to late June, providing a three-month window for the attraction’s return. Given the extent of demolition visible in late January, many are questioning whether Disney can complete the work by early spring. Late May or June seems more realistic based on current conditions, although Disney has a history of accelerating construction timelines when necessary.
As the transformation of Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin unfolds, excitement continues to build among fans and parkgoers alike. The updates promise to enhance the ride experience significantly, making it a must-visit attraction upon its reopening.
Stay tuned for updates on this and other projects at Disney parks worldwide! Which part of the Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin makeover are you most excited about? Share your thoughts in the comments!
