New plans are shaping the year ahead at Walt Disney World Resort, and one Tomorrowland favorite is now officially on the schedule for a return visit. After months of anticipation, the resort has shared the reopening window for Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin, along with fresh details on what Imagineering has been preparing behind the scenes.
Closed since August 2025, the Magic Kingdom attraction has been moving through one of its most ambitious refurbishments yet. Disney has now confirmed that guests will be able to reenter the world of Star Command in Spring 2026, marking the end of a lengthy update that touches nearly every part of the experience.
Imagineering is expanding the story with a full new scene featuring a character named Buddy, created with Pixar. This addition is designed to build out the Space Ranger narrative in a new direction and give guests a deeper look at the workings of Star Command. Buddy’s arrival is one of the major enhancements planned for the refreshed ride.
Ride vehicle updates are also underway, bringing modern features to the Tomorrowland classic. The original mounted Z-blasters are being replaced with handheld versions, offering a different way for guests to aim and fire. New onboard video screens will provide real-time scoring, giving the mission a competitive format that fits with current gameplay experiences across the parks.
In its 2026 Walt Disney World Resort roundup, Disney Parks Blog highlighted the update with excitement:
“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,” the post shared. “…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!”
These changes arrive as part of a larger refresh happening throughout Magic Kingdom. Other major attractions, including Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, are also preparing to reopen during the same season. With Tomorrowland continuing to evolve, the return of Space Ranger Spin signals another step in an ongoing wave of updates across the park.
Fans eager to rejoin the battle against Evil Emperor Zurg will soon have the chance to do so with renewed energy, new tools, and an expanded storyline that celebrates the spirit of the original attraction while ushering in a new era for the Space Rangers.
How are you feeling about everything coming to Walt Disney World Resort next year? Share your thoughts with us in the comments.
