Astro Orbiter Reopens at Magic Kingdom

After a months-long transformation, the iconic Astro Orbiter has officially reopened as of June 27th 2025, bringing a fresh cosmic glow to the skies above Tomorrowland.

1. From Dismantling to Reassembly

• The refurbishment began on January 13, 2025, when Disney crews fully dismantled the ride—rockets, planetary decor, elevator tower, the lot—for a comprehensive overhaul.

• A powerful crane lifted themed elements off-site, signaling a near-total rebuild.

2. A Stunning Rebuild

• By mid-June, reconstruction was complete. Planets were reinstalled, structural components rebuilt, and the ride system fully reassembled—entering the testing phase.

• The elevator tower has been refreshed with a sleek silver-gray coat, replacing its previous orange hue.

• The vibrant planetary colors are brighter than ever—claims of “vibrant planets return” were no exaggeration.

3. Testing Phase & Soft Reopening

• Ride testing began around June 19, with rockets seen spinning through Tomorrowland  .

• Despite the ride calendar still showing “closed through July,” the Astro Orbiter officially reopened on June 27, visible on park apps with a 20-minute wait.

  
  

4. What’s Changed (and What Hasn’t)

• Ride Mechanics: No major alterations—guests still pilot retro-futuristic rockets steering via a joystick from the elevated platform.

• Visual Enhancements:

  
  

  • Repainted elevator tower adds a modern touch.

  • Restored planetary orrery, though it may no longer rotate—the decorative elements are back, but their motion is yet to be confirmed.

  
  

• Guest Experience: Everything you loved—panoramic views over Tomorrowland, thrilling spins, and charming aesthetics—is intact.

5. Why the Refurb?

• Routine overhaul: Astro Orbiter’s last major update was in 2014 with new paint and lighting.

• Given its prominent perch atop the PeopleMover track, Disney opted for a full teardown and rebuild—the safest and most thorough approach.

🌌 Final Thoughts

The refreshed Astro Orbiter now shines brighter, cleaner, and more vibrant than ever—just in time for summer crowds. Whether you’re a Tomorrowland purist or a thrill-seeker, the ride is worth your ticket…especially with that jaw-dropping elevated view!

Have you taken a spin yet? Let us know if the planets still move and how your ride experience felt—especially at night!