Disney Is Reportedly Retheming Iconic Space Mountain

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space mountain loading disneyland

Credit: Disney

Ahead of the Splash Mountain retheme — the Song of the South (1946) animatronics and sets will be replaced with scenes and characters from The Princess and the Frog (2009) — Disneyland Resort is now reportedly retheming another iconic “mountain,” Space Mountain.

Space Mountain at Disneyland
Credit: Disney

Related: Disney Developing Space Mountain Movie

Per a new report about the possible retheme, which has not been confirmed by Walt Disney Company officials at this time:

The rumor suggests that Space Mountain will receive a permanent Lightyear re-theme, which will be announced at D23 this fall. The main basis of this rumor is the use of a structure that looks similar to Space Mountain’s silhouette in Lightyear, which has appeared in promotional trailers. That structure appears to be the launchpad for Star Command that will eventually send Lightyear on his mission to the cosmos.

Chris Evans as Buzz Lightyear
Credit: Pixar Animation Studios

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Lightyear, which stars Chris Evans voicing the “real life” Buzz Lightyear who inspired Andy’s beloved space ranger toy in the Toy Story franchise, is set to debut in theaters on June 17, 2022.

Early reviews of the computer animated film are divided — some find it to be an excellent addition to the Pixar catalogue, while others are unimpressed with the execution. Some have even vocalized their frustration at Tim Allen not voicing the human version of the character he made famous alongside Tom Hanks’s Woody the Cowboy.

Toy Story 2 characters -- Jessie, Woody, Bullseye, and Buzz
Credit: Pixar Animation Studio

Related: Pixar’s ‘Turning Red’ Abandons Theaters and Heads Straight to Disney+

Although Disney hasn’t officially announced anything about a Lightyear retheme of the iconic roller coaster, it wouldn’t be shocking to see more Pixar Animation Studios come to Disneyland Resort.

The theme park property’s second gate, Disney California Adventure Park, is already home to Pixar Pier and the Paradise Pier Hotel is set to receive a Pixar-influenced makeover in the near future as well.

Bill Watkins, who designed Space Mountain, takes one last ride on Wednesday, Feb. 7. 2018 at Disneyland in Anaheim. (Photo by Rob Sparacio, Disney Enterprises, Inc.)
Credit: Disney

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The Disneyland version of Space Mountain, which was designed by Bill Watkins [above], is currently operating as “Hyperspace Mountain.” This Star Wars-inspired take on the iconic ride — which can also be found at Disneyland Paris — is described as:

Rocket Right onto the Battlefield
Fend off crossfire from swarms of Rebel X-wing starfighters and Imperial TIE fighters amidst an intergalactic onslaught!

Your mission begins with a briefing from Admiral Ackbar—the Rebel Alliance needs help flying reconnaissance vessels to survey an Imperial Star Destroyer. After being escorted into hyperspace by an elite X-wing squadron, you arrive only to find the Star Destroyer waiting with a swarm of TIE fighters—it’s a trap!

As Rebel forces valiantly battle Imperial vessels, you’re caught up in a barrage of blaster fire. Maneuvers become more intense as you join the Rebel squadron for one final, courageous assault on the menacing Star Destroyer. It’s an epic Star Wars combat scene taken straight from the films—but hurry, Hyperspace Mountain is only open for a limited time!

disneyland paris hyperspace mountain
Credit: Disney

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The normal version of the ride is expected to reopen on July 5, 2022. Space Mountain is described as:

All Systems Go
Navigate through a vast futuristic space station as you make your way to Mission Control. Board a sleek flight vehicle and prepare yourself for a high-flying adventure to the furthest reaches of space.

Ascend slowly through a swirling solar field as your rocket powers up. Plunge through a spectacular spiral nebula and then, when the countdown ends—hang on tight!

As you hurtle forward into infinite darkness, your rocket darts and twists in the void, speeding faster and faster. Feel the g-force as you careen into the unknown!

Immersive sound effects and evocative music add to the intense sensory experience.

Brave the most epic journey of your Earthbound life and accept your mission—to conquer Space Mountain.

Do you think a Lightyear retheme would be good for Space Mountain’s popularity?

Visit the official Disney World website to plan your next magical vacation to Walt Disney World Resort’s four theme parks — Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and Disney’s Hollywood Studios — and the Disney Springs shopping and dining district OR the official Disneyland website to plan your trip to Disneyland Resort’s two theme parks — Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park — and the Downtown Disney District!

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