Most Disney attractions welcome guests with open arms—colorful facades, friendly Cast Members, and maybe a gentle reminder about height requirements or health guidelines. But there’s one ride at EPCOT that takes those warnings and ramps them up to an entirely different level: Mission: SPACE.
This ride doesn’t just say, “Proceed with caution.” It practically begs guests to think twice.
Before you even step inside the queue, you’re greeted with repeated advisories—on signs, in pre-shows, and even from the Cast Members themselves. And they’re not your typical “just-in-case” warnings. They’re direct. “If you’re not sure, take the gentler path.” “If you feel uneasy, don’t ride.” That kind of tone is rare in Disney parks—and it’s the first sign that Mission: SPACE is unlike anything else.
Two Options… But Guests Still Say No
The ride splits into two versions. The Green Mission is the less intense path, designed to simulate orbiting Earth using a motion simulator. It has no spinning and is meant to be easier on the stomach.
Then there’s the Orange Mission.
This is the one that sends guests to Mars in the most extreme way Disney could think of—through a spinning centrifuge that mimics the g-forces of a real rocket launch. It presses riders back into their seats, disorients their senses, and has been known to ruin more than a few park days.
The ride is so notorious that each ride capsule comes equipped with its own motion sickness bag. Yes, it’s there in front of every rider, not hidden or tucked away. And yes, they get used. Frequently.
Real Reactions from Real Guests
You don’t have to search long to find stories from guests who regretted giving it a shot. Some say they walked off woozy and never recovered for the rest of the day. Others describe spending time curled up in the shade or sitting in silence, waiting for the dizziness to pass. And even thrill seekers—people who live for coasters and wild drops—have admitted that this ride hit them harder than anything else at Disney World.
Disney even introduced the Green side as a result of how overwhelming the Orange experience could be. The original version didn’t offer a less intense path, and after hearing years of complaints and concerns, the park made the change. But even with two levels now available, the Orange Mission remains one of the most skipped rides in the entire resort.
Why Guests Keep Avoiding It
The big issue? This ride is intense in a way that most people simply aren’t ready for. It’s not about speed or thrill. It’s about sustained g-forces, tight spaces, and movement that messes with your balance. You’re told to stare straight ahead and not move your head for a reason—because even a quick glance sideways can lead to immediate nausea.
And if you’re someone prone to motion sickness, anxiety in enclosed spaces, or just not a fan of spinning, this ride can feel more like a punishment than a thrill. The ride’s design might be technologically impressive, but it’s not for everyone. In fact, it’s not for a lot of people.
That’s why so many guests walk right by Mission: SPACE—sometimes even after waiting in line—once they realize what they’re getting into.
Should You Ride It? Maybe… Maybe Not
For a select few, Mission: SPACE is an unforgettable rush. They love the simulation, the challenge, and the sense of realism. But for many others, it’s one of those “one and done” experiences—if they even try it once.
So if you find yourself at EPCOT staring down the giant space-themed pavilion wondering if you’re brave enough to take the ride, just remember: skipping it isn’t a failure. In fact, a lot of people do. Some say it’s the smartest decision they made all day.
After all, when a ride includes a barf bag and a mountain of warnings, it might be worth asking yourself: “Do I want to experience space travel today… or do I want to keep my lunch down?”
