Disneyland Resort‘s Space Mountain is one of the world’s most iconic theme park attractions, but even classics sometimes need an update. Fans may have noticed a significant change to the structure in recent years—Disney added an extra “tier” to the building. The reason? A serious safety incident prompted the change after 37 years of operation.
The History of Space Mountain
Space Mountain opened at Disneyland Park in 1977, following its debut at Walt Disney World Resort in 1975. The futuristic indoor roller coaster became a global phenomenon, with versions also opening at Disneyland Paris, Tokyo Disneyland, and Hong Kong Disneyland. While some locations have received long-term Star Wars: Hyperspace Mountain rethemes, Disneyland Park’s Space Mountain has largely maintained its original intergalactic theme, with temporary overlays adding variety during special events.
For decades, the Southern California Tomorrowland ride’s iconic white dome remained untouched—until an unfortunate incident forced changes to the attraction.
The Incident That Changed Space Mountain
Disney Parks fans on Reddit recently discussed Space Mountain’s updated exterior after a guest noticed the structural addition. Redditor u/rosariobono asked why the building appeared to have an extra tier, sparking a discussion about the ride’s history and safety updates.
TIL Space Mountain got an extra tier. Why?
TIL Space Mountain got an extra tier. Why?
byu/rosariobono inDisneyland
“They were cited and fined when a maintenance worker fell off Space Mountain,” said u/snarkprovider.
The comment referred to a 2012 incident in which a subcontractor fell 20 to 30 feet while cleaning the roof of Space Mountain. Fortunately, a barrier prevented him from falling to the ground, but he sustained severe injuries, including a broken leg, collarbone, and multiple ribs. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) launched an investigation, ultimately citing Disneyland Resort for safety violations and mandating updates to the building.
“OSHA fined Disneyland and told them that they have to install railings on outside of buildings and attractions,” u/RecommendationBig768 added. “If you go on the Alice in Wonderland ride… there is a set of railings preventing people from falling off the edge. Been there since 2013.”
The Purpose Behind the New Tier
According to u/neebukem, a former Disney cast member, the structure was added to provide a secure area for workers performing maintenance and cleaning tasks.
“I worked at DLR at the time, and one of the big things happening was the OSHA violation spree,” they explained. “Railings were erected in some very ‘bad show’ locations… because OSHA deemed it unsafe without them. Regarding Space, I have a pic I cannot share of them building that third tier, and I can see some mechanical equipment being installed as well. Potentially winches for people to latch into for cleaning or walking the roof.”
Have you noticed other changes at the Disney parks? Share your experience with Disney Dining in the comments.
