Disney Releases Buzz Lightyear Update After Magic Kingdom Attraction Indefinitely Closed
Walt Disney World Resort continues outlining what guests can expect over the next few years.
Credit: Sarah Larson, Inside the MagicBuzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin at Magic Kingdom is preparing for its return after undergoing a lengthy refurbishment, and Disney has now confirmed that guests will be able to ride again in spring 2026.
The interactive dark ride closed in August 2025 so Walt Disney Imagineering could begin one of the attraction’s most significant refreshes in years. When it reopens, visitors will once again join Buzz Lightyear in the battle against Emperor Zurg, but the mission will feature a variety of new elements.
During the refurbishment, Imagineers worked on multiple updates intended to modernize the ride while maintaining the gameplay fans know well. One of the most noticeable additions will be an entirely new show scene that introduces a character named Buddy.
The character was developed with input from Pixar—currently preparing the release of Toy Story 5 (2026) in June—and is meant to expand the Star Command storyline. The addition gives the attraction another layer of storytelling as riders work their way through the mission.
The ride system itself is also receiving several upgrades. Previously, guests used fixed Z-blasters mounted to the ride vehicles. Those have now been replaced with handheld blasters, giving riders the ability to aim more freely at targets throughout the attraction.
Another technological change involves onboard video displays installed in each vehicle. These screens will track player scores in real time during the ride. Disney says the goal is to make the scoring system clearer while also strengthening the competitive element between riders.
Disney confirmed the attraction’s return window while sharing a broader look at upcoming experiences arriving across Walt Disney World.
“Across Magic Kingdom in Tomorrowland, I’m ready to take on Evil Emperor Zurg with the help of updated ride vehicles, cool new handheld blasters, and interactive targets at Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin,” Disney Parks Blog wrote in its 2026 Walt Disney World Resort roundup, “and guests of all ages won’t need to wait too long to try for that Galactic Hero rank, because the attraction reopens spring 2026!”
After months behind construction walls, the resort has also started highlighting the attraction’s upcoming return through new promotional footage. The clips suggest the refreshed ride is nearly ready to welcome guests again.
According to Drew Smith (@DrewDisneyDude), Disney recently began advertising the attraction’s return to park visitors.
“NEW: Walt Disney World is promoting the reopening of Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin at Magic Kingdom!
The attraction is “relaunching sooooooon” with a new show scene, updated ride vehicles, handheld blasters, interactive targets, and more!”
NEW: Walt Disney World is promoting the reopening of Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin at Magic Kingdom!
The attraction is “relaunching sooooooon” with a new show scene, updated ride vehicles, handheld blasters, interactive targets, and more! pic.twitter.com/iE0rClzN6v
— Drew Smith (@DrewDisneyDude) March 4, 2026
The refurbishment took place during a stretch when several Magic Kingdom rides were closed for work. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad was among the attractions also shuttered last year and remains unavailable as updates continue.
Even with Space Ranger Spin closed since late summer 2025, many longtime guests have continued to talk about its eventual return. The attraction has been part of Tomorrowland since 1998, giving riders the chance to help Buzz Lightyear defeat Emperor Zurg by shooting targets and earning points throughout the ride.
The planned updates indicate that Disney is working to maintain the familiar gameplay while incorporating newer technology and expanding the storyline. Handheld blasters, improved ride vehicles, and real-time score tracking could change how guests experience the attraction, while the new character Buddy introduces another layer to the Star Command mission.
For many fans, competing for the coveted Galactic Hero title has long been part of visiting Tomorrowland. The attraction’s return will add another refreshed experience to the area as Magic Kingdom prepares for future expansion.
The park is also moving forward with one of the most ambitious projects in its history, which will bring Piston Peak National Park and Villains Land to the resort’s flagship park. With Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin preparing for its spring 2026 reopening, Tomorrowland will soon once again send recruits into the battle against Zurg.
How do you feel about the new Buzz Lightyear ride? Let us know in the comments down below!
