Walt Disney World regularly takes steps to maintain and improve its attractions, ensuring a great experience for visitors. Starting in January 2025, the Astro Orbiter at Magic Kingdom will close for a planned refurbishment. If you’re planning a visit during this time or are simply curious about what’s in store for this Tomorrowland classic, here’s everything you need to know.
Refurbishment Timeline and Details
The Astro Orbiter will temporarily close on January 13th, 2025, with plans to reopen sometime during the summer. While Disney has not provided specific details about the planned work, the extended timeline suggests that more than routine maintenance is being done.
Due to the Astro Orbiter’s elevated location atop the Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover platform, accessing the attraction for extensive updates might require additional time. The refurbishment could include improvements to the ride system, fresh paint, or other general updates. Some fans speculate that the project may align with Tomorrowland’s evolving design, which has been slowly refreshed over recent years.
What Is the Astro Orbiter?
The Astro Orbiter is a spinner ride located at the heart of Tomorrowland. Guests board rocket-themed vehicles and enjoy a ride that simulates an orbit around planets. Riders control the height of their spaceship as it spins, offering both an interactive and scenic experience. Its location above the PeopleMover gives guests a unique view of Magic Kingdom, which has made it a favorite attraction since its debut.
Impact on Tomorrowland Visitors
For visitors heading to Tomorrowland during the refurbishment, the Astro Orbiter’s closure will slightly impact the land’s skyline and guest flow. However, surrounding attractions such as the PeopleMover, Space Mountain, and Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin will remain open. If Astro Orbiter is on your must-do list, consider planning your visit later in 2025 to catch its reopening.
Looking Ahead
The Astro Orbiter refurbishment is just part of Disney’s ongoing investment in keeping classic attractions functional. Once the ride reopens, it will undoubtedly return as a staple of Tomorrowland, continuing to offer guests an other-worldly perspective of Tomorrowland.
As always, stay tuned to the DVC Shop blog to get all the latest developments from inside the Disney parks and around the Disney Vacation Club resorts!