Disney World never stays the same for long.
It’s closed!
Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin is officially closed for a major overhaul, and when it returns in 2026, it won’t just be a touch-up. Disney has revealed several big changes coming to the ride, and we think these are the kinds of updates that could completely change how you experience one of Tomorrowland’s most classic attractions. From a brand-new character to interactive technology and reimagined ride vehicles, the future of Space Ranger Spin looks very different. Let’s break down the four updates you’ll want to know about and why they matter way more than you think.
A Brand-New Character Joins the Adventure
This might sound small, but it’s actually a huge deal. For the very first time, riders will meet Buddy, a brand-new robot designed by Walt Disney Imagineering and Pixar Animation Studios. Buddy’s role is simple but important: he’s there at the very start of the ride to prepare Space Rangers for their mission. He’ll run through system checks, give words of encouragement, and even help guests warm up their blaster skills before blasting off to take on Zurg.
©Disney
Why does this matter? Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin has always been fun, but it didn’t have much in the way of storytelling. With Buddy, Imagineers are layering in more character-driven immersion—similar to how you meet Hondo before flying the Millennium Falcon in Galaxy’s Edge. It’s a small touch that can make the whole ride feel more complete and modern. Plus, Buddy was created specifically for this attraction, which shows Disney is investing in original ideas rather than just reusing familiar Pixar characters. That’s exciting for the future of Tomorrowland.
New Ride Vehicles That Change the Game
Another big update is the redesign of the ride vehicles, and these aren’t just getting a new paint job. The star cruisers will now be themed to match the colors of Buzz Lightyear’s suit and Star Command, creating a more cohesive visual look. But the real upgrade is in the functionality: each vehicle will come with built-in video monitors that show real-time scoring updates throughout your mission.
New ride vehicle for Buzz Lightyear Space Ranger Spin
This may sound like a cosmetic change, but for fans who love competing for that perfect Galactic Hero score, this is game-changing. Right now, players don’t know their score until the very end, but these monitors mean you’ll be able to track your progress in real time and adjust your strategy mid-mission. That adds a whole new level of competitive play and replay value to the ride. Plus, the vehicles themselves are being reimagined with a clamshell-style design, which makes them easier to load and gives each cruiser a sleek, futuristic look.
Handheld Blasters with Serious Upgrades
If you’ve ever ridden Space Ranger Spin, you know one of the biggest frustrations: those blasters fixed to the ride vehicle don’t exactly give you the best aim. That’s all changing with the refurbishment. Starting in 2026, each ride vehicle will come with two handheld blasters, designed so guests can aim more freely and accurately.
©Disney
Not only are these blasters handheld, but they’re also packed with upgrades. Each one will have an always-on laser (so you can finally see where you’re aiming), new lighting and sound effects, and even vibration feedback when you hit a target. On top of that, each cruiser will have two different colored blasters—one red and one green—so it’s easier to tell whose laser is whose.
©Disney
This change is massive because it makes the ride more approachable for everyone. Younger riders will actually be able to participate without struggling to aim, and seasoned players will have a better chance at hitting high-value targets. It’s a win-win that makes the game more fun for all skill levels.
Interactive Targets That React When Hit
The last big change may sound subtle, but it’s arguably the most exciting for gameplay. The old Z targets inside the attraction are being completely replaced with new interactive versions. These will light up, rotate, and even react with sound effects when hit by your blaster.
©Disney
For a ride that’s been criticized in the past for feeling a little dated compared to newer interactive attractions like Toy Story Mania, this is a major step forward. Suddenly, your actions have a visible effect on the ride environment, which makes the experience feel more alive and immersive. This also gives Imagineers a lot of room to add hidden scoring opportunities, secret targets, or even special effects that trigger during the mission. It could completely transform the way you play the game.
Why These Updates Matter
On the surface, these may just seem like small tweaks to a fan-favorite ride, but together, they represent something bigger: Disney is investing in making Tomorrowland feel more relevant again. Space Ranger Spin has been around since 1998, and while it’s been a reliable staple, it’s long needed an update to stay competitive with newer interactive rides in the parks.
Space Ranger Spin
With Buddy adding new storytelling, handheld blasters and interactive targets creating a more dynamic gameplay experience, and updated ride vehicles enhancing both immersion and competition, Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin is evolving into a next-generation version of itself. It’s not just a refurbishment—it’s a reinvention. And for fans, that matters because it shows Disney isn’t just keeping the ride alive, they’re giving it the kind of attention and creativity that could keep it popular for decades to come. When the attraction reopens in 2026, don’t be surprised if it becomes one of the most in-demand rides in Magic Kingdom.
Closed for Refurbishment
In the meantime, make sure you stay tuned to DFB for the latest Disney news!
A Popular EPCOT Attraction Is Closing for Refurbishment This Month
Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe!
WE KNOW DISNEY.
YOU CAN, TOO.
Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation.
Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever!
Will you be riding Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin when it reopens? Tell us in the comments.
Our handy (and portable!) ebook guides make sure you get the best deals and can plan a vacation of a lifetime.
… yup, those cars are clearly smaller lol – it will be interesting to see what happens when taller/longer armed/broader shouldered guests want to ride alone. You don’t have to be overweight for Disney’s rides to be too small. We can’t even go on Space Mountain anymore, and it’s a height thing. What is Disney doing? People are only getting larger, and not just around (but that too).