Attention, Attention Star Command to all Space Rangers: Buzz Lightyear attraction in Magic Kingdom is getting a much needed upgrade, and let’s just say, Star Command is pulling out all the stops. In August 2025, Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin will temporarily power down to making way for a reimagined and enhanced experience set to launch in 2026. This is an exciting refresh that brings in new ride vehicles, enhanced blasters, upgraded targets, and even a brand-new character, Buddy the Robot.
If you’ve been riding since Buzz took over in 1998, you’ll know this attraction has some history. It originally started as If You Had Wings (1972), later became Delta Dreamflight, and then morphed into the space-tastic shooter we know today. With over two decades of blasting targets and racking up Galactic Hero status, it’s time for a next-gen upgrade.
So, what’s changing? Let’s break it down, Space Rangers.
Buddy the Robot: Your New Mission Companion
Move over, Woody there’s a new (robotic) sheriff in town. Meet Buddy the Robot, a park-exclusive character designed to guide guests through their mission training. He’ll appear at the start of the ride, running a systems check and explaining all the new interactive features. Think of him as your friendly tech support bot, making sure every Space Ranger is prepped and ready to defend the galaxy.
Expect fun dialogue, a quirky personality, and maybe even some Easter eggs that reference the attraction’s past. And speaking of past rides, Buddy’s unit ID (IYHW-3) is a nod to “If You Had Wings”, a classic from the early days of Tomorrowland.
New Ride Vehicles: A Smoother Flight to Infinity and Beyond
The 1972 ride system that’s been chugging along for decades is finally getting an upgrade. While we’re still getting the classic omnimover-style ride, the new vehicles will feature:
- Updated monitors for better gameplay tracking
- More dynamic movement to match the action
- Seek new designs (because let’s be honest, it’s time for a glow-up)
These changes should make for a smoother, more engaging ride experience, less clunky turning, more precise aiming, and hopefully fewer broken blasters mid-mission.
Blasters Get a Major Power Boost
Arguably the biggest (and most exciting) change will be no more static blasters! The current laser guns, which are fixed to the ride vehicle, are being replaced with handheld blasters that will make targeting more intuitive and fun. These new blasters will feature:
- Always-on lasers for easier aiming
- New sound and light effects for a more immersive feel
- Haptic feedback, adding a tactile response when you fire
Basically, you’ll actually feel like you’re firing a real blaster, not just clicking a broken joystick and hoping for the best.
Upgraded Targets: A More Interactive Galactic Battle
If you’ve ever squinted at the Z targets in the dark, desperately trying to figure out where you’re aiming, good news, those days are over. The targets will now be optimised for the new blaster tech, meaning better tracking and more satisfying hits. Whether this means dynamic, moving targets or an updated scoring system is still unknown, but expect a more interactive experience across the board.
What’s Staying the Same?
While these updates are very exciting (and possibly a little overdue), take note that this is a refresh, not a full re-theme. Buzz Lightyear and the battle against Zurg are still the main focus, meaning longtime fans can rest easy knowing their Galactic Defender status remains intact.
The Bottom Line: This a Win for Tomorrowland
While Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin is a longtime favourite, it has needed of some TLC. These new updates should make for a smoother, more immersive, and fun experience, while still keeping the classic charm that had made this attraction a Magic Kingdom must do in Tomorrowland.
So, Space Rangers, get ready to power up those blasters, because Star Command is about to take this mission to the next level. Will you be ready to defeat Zurg when the attraction reopens in 2026?
Although no official date has been announced stay dialled in for updates and keep watch for our new newsletter coming soon.
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If you’re planning a 2026 trip, make sure to snag a Magic Kingdom day to check out the refreshed ride firsthand. Until then, may your blasters be steady and your score be high, Space Rangers!
So, Space Rangers, what do you think of these upgrades? Are you buzzing with excitement, or are you secretly siding with Zurg on this one?
If you’ve ever hit the elusive Galactic Hero status (aka maxed out your score like a true sharpshooter), now’s the time to brag. Or maybe you have a go-to pro tip for racking up points that you’re willing to share (or keep top secret like a true Space Ranger).
And let’s hear those favourite ride memories! Whether it’s your first battle with Zurg, an epic high score moment, or just spinning in circles and accepting defeat, we want to know.
If you’re excited for these new changes, leave your comments below! Let’s talk blasters, Buddy the Robot, and all things intergalactic.
