The Astro Orbiter has officially reopened following an extensive five-month refurbishment. This update marks another significant step in Disney’s routine maintenance of classic rides to ensure both functionality and guest enjoyment. Here’s a detailed look at what’s new and noteworthy about the attraction’s recent updates.
Refurbishment Overview
The refurbishment, which began in mid-January 2025, involved the complete removal and rebuilding of the ride structure. Disney often undertakes such projects to maintain the safety and reliability of its attractions while preserving their classic look and feel. This refurbishment aligns with Disney’s goal of ensuring that visitors have the best possible experience onboard its attractions.
While the Astro Orbiter’s overall design and features remain largely unchanged, the rebuild included mechanical and structural enhancements. These updates improve the ride’s functionality while maintaining the iconic aesthetics Tomorrowland is known for.
Updated Features of the Attraction
Refreshed Rockets
The ride’s centerpiece continues to be its signature rockets, which now feature subtle updates. While the design remains familiar to long-time fans, these rockets have been refreshed to blend the nostalgic look of Tomorrowland with updated finishes. Guests will once again be able to board these vessels for a ride high above the land.
A Familiar Yet Rebuilt Experience
The ride mechanics have undergone a full update, though the guest experience remains consistent with how it operated pre-refurbishment. Riders can enjoy sweeping views of Magic Kingdom as they soar above Tomorrowland’s attractions and pathways.
Though changes are largely behind-the-scenes, these updates align with Disney’s emphasis on upholding safety and guest satisfaction while maintaining the timeless feel of its park attractions.
Final Thoughts
While the changes may not be immediately visible, the extensive behind-the-scenes refurbishments ensure that the ride remains a reliable and enjoyable part of the park’s lineup for years to come. Whether you’re visiting Magic Kingdom for the first time or are a frequent guest, Astro Orbiter provides a great opportunity to see the park from above while enjoying a classic Disney attraction.
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Written by
Rachel Van Norman
Contributing Writer
Rachel fell deeply in love with all things Disney as a little girl. Now as a wife and a mother herself, she shares this Disney obsession with her son and everyone around her. From her love of princesses to eating all the Disney food, Rachel spends her time radiating Disney magic and keeping everyone up to date on Disney news.
