Something interesting has been happening quietly in Tomorrowland, and it’s not coming from a Disney press release or a carefully staged announcement. Instead, it’s coming from one of the park’s most relaxed rides.
Guests aboard the PeopleMover have recently started spotting brand-new interactive targets inside Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin. The attraction is currently closed, but these newly installed elements are
clearly visible from above — and they’re offering the clearest sign yet that Disney’s long-promised overhaul is finally taking physical shape.
For a ride that’s been offline and largely hidden from view, this feels like a meaningful shift. Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin isn’t just being talked about anymore. It’s actively being rebuilt.
A Casual Ride Turned Into a Construction Window
The PeopleMover has a long history of unintentionally pulling back the curtain on Tomorrowland. From glimpses into Space Mountain to views of show buildings guests were never meant to study closely, it’s often where fans notice progress first.
That tradition continues here.
Riders began pointing out newly installed targets inside Buzz Lightyear’s show scenes — targets that were not part of the original ride design. While Disney hasn’t officially commented on these sightings, their presence lines up perfectly with what the company previously confirmed about the attraction’s future.
Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin’s new interactive targets have been installed and are visible from the PeopleMover at Magic Kingdom! 👀 pic.twitter.com/nalQMsIMJH
— Drew Smith (@DrewDisneyDude) December 17, 2025
These aren’t decorative upgrades. They’re functional pieces of a revamped gameplay system that’s meant to address years of guest complaints.
Why This Ride Needed a Reset
Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin opened in the late 1990s, and for a long time, it was a Tomorrowland favorite. But as technology evolved and newer Toy Story attractions debuted, the ride started to feel stuck.
Guests struggled with fixed blasters that were hard to aim. Scoring often felt random. Targets didn’t always respond clearly when hit. What was once charming gradually became frustrating.
Disney eventually acknowledged those issues and made the call to fully modernize the attraction instead of quietly patching it up. That decision led to a full closure and a promise of a significantly upgraded experience.
What the New Targets Suggest About the Ride’s Direction
The new targets visible from the PeopleMover strongly suggest Disney is prioritizing clarity and responsiveness. These upgraded targets are designed to light up and react more clearly when hit, making the game feel more intuitive and rewarding.
That change works alongside other confirmed upgrades, including new ride vehicles with onboard score screens and handheld blasters that are easier for guests of all ages to use.
Together, these updates point toward a more polished, modern interactive experience — one that finally brings Buzz Lightyear in line with current standards.
A Small Glimpse That Speaks Volumes
Seeing these targets might seem like a minor detail, but in Disney terms, it’s a big deal. It means designs are finalized, installation is underway, and the project is moving forward steadily.
Tomorrowland has been slowly evolving, and Buzz Lightyear’s update is a key piece of that puzzle. From a simple PeopleMover ride, guests are now getting a front-row seat to the attraction’s next era — even before Disney officially pulls back the curtain.
