Spaceship Earth’s Long Awaited Refurbishment May Finally Be Happening

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spaceship earth animatronics

Credit: Disney

At the 2019 D23 Expo, Disney announced that that Spaceship Earth would soon undergo a refurbishment that would close the attraction down for two years. When discussing the refurbishment, Disney Parks Blog originally noted that:

Throughout the attraction, you’ll hear new narration and see how light plays a central role in our shared human journey, coming to life in dynamic ways in a celebration of the magic that’s possible when we all come together. 

However, due to the ongoing pandemic, Disney had to decide which projects were a “priority” and Spaceship Earth’s refurbishment was not on the list and, therefore, was paused indefinitely. At the time of publication, we do not know when the Spaceship Earth refurbishment will begin; however, a new permit indicates it could be sooner rather than later.

Spaceship Earth
Credit: Disney

Disney has recently filed a permit for general construction work for the location of Spaceship Earth with the contractor Fadgen Builders.

We want to note that because the permit does not list exactly what type of construction this is for, it could be relating to anything as minor as paint or something more major such as ride repairs — or even perhaps a jumpstart on the refurbishment Disney had planned in 2019. Though, it is important to note that Spaceship Earth is not currently listed on the refurbishment calendar. As with all refurbishments, the calendar is subject to change and Spaceship Earth could be listed at anytime.

Be sure to the check the My Disney Experience app for the most up-to-date information on ride closures and scheduled refurbishments.

spaceship earth
Credit: Inside the Magic

Related: New Permit Indicates Daytime Parades May Soon Return to Disney Park

Again, at this time Disney has not announced what exactly this permit is for but Inside the Magic will update you as we get information.

More on Spaceship Earth

fireworks spaceship earth
Credit: Disney

If you have never been on Spaceship Earth, Disney World describes this attraction as:

Witness the landmark moments of amazing innovation that made today’s spectacular communications technology possible.

Travel back to the dawn of humanity, when early man painted on cave walls. Watch new ideas spread like wildfire with the invention of Gutenberg’s printing press. The wheels of time turn ever faster as we enter the modern age of media, from newspapers announcing the end of the Civil War to the televised broadcast of the moon landing—and beyond.

All of these great moments are brought vividly to life using elaborate sets and advanced Audio-Animatronics figures during this inspirational, 16-minute, Omnimover-style attraction.

Spaceship earth beacons of light
Credit: Zach Riddley via Instagram

What do you think this permit is for? Let us know in the comments below.

If you want to book a Disney vacation and visit one of the four theme parks — Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, or Disney’s Animal Kingdom — be sure to reach out to our friends at Academy Travel, who will be with you every step of the way when planning your magical Disney vacation.

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