One Disney park has removed the final trace of Space Mountain from its version of Tomorrowland.
Since launching at Walt Disney World in 1975, Space Mountain has served as the epitome of Disney thrill rides. Its success led to custom-built versions across Anaheim, Tokyo, Paris, and Hong Kong, each adding regional flair to the deep-space concept.
More than just a roller coaster, it became a cultural touchstone, proving that Disney could deliver high-tech spectacle without losing its storytelling core. In recent years, however, Disney has rebranded several Space Mountains to sync with its growing franchise empire. Both Disneyland Paris and Hong Kong Disneyland introduced Star Wars: Hyperspace Mountain, layering X-Wings, TIE Fighters, and John Williams’ score over the original experience.
One park, however, has completely axed its version of the ride, with the final traces removed as of this week.
Demolition of Space Mountain Reaches End
In April 2022, Tokyo Disneyland announced an even more drastic plan for its iconic Space Mountain: a permanent closure.
The ride officially ceased operations on July 31, 2024, marking the end of its 41-year run. Since then, teams have gradually dismantled the coaster, with the ride now officially removed from Tomorrowland.
But it’s not all bad news. Tokyo Disney Resort – which is technically owned by the Oriental Land Company, not Disney – is in the process of constructing a brand-new version of the roller coaster. Rumored to be called Space Mountain: Earthrise, this is set to open in 2027 and is set to “provide a greater connection between Earth and the universe.
As per Walt Disney Imagineering Producer Kathleen Davis, “It’s not only a whole new ride experience, but the story also has so much emotion. Through the queue and then on the ride, we see our connection to our planet and gain a new perspective for how special it is in all the universe. It’s a roller coaster with both thrill and heart.”
New Plans for the Park’s Tomorrowland
Alongside the new attraction, Tokyo Disneyland is developing a redesigned Tomorrowland Plaza in the spot occupied by the old version of Space Mountain that will imagine a future defined by harmony between humanity and nature.
This space will offer guests areas to relax, surrounded by symbolic design elements meant to evoke optimism and forward-thinking ideals. At night, immersive lighting and sound effects will transform the plaza, adding depth and atmosphere to this reimagined vision of the future.
Meanwhile, Buzz Lightyear’s Astro Blasters also closed for good in 2024 to make way for yet another new attraction in Tomorrowland. The attraction will become a Wreck-It Ralph (2012) shooter ride, not totally dissimilar to its predecessor. This is set to open in 2026.
In 2020, Tokyo Disneyland also added The Happy Ride with Baymax to the future-themed land. This ride system is similar to Alien Swirling Saucers at Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree at Disney California Adventure, with the entire experience set to an original soundtrack that has actually generated its own cult. (Yes, really).
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