Disney recently provided an update on the future of Epcot and released a bunch of new concept art. The Epcot update touched on several projects, including the new CommuniCore Hall, a reimagined space called Epcot Gardens, and the Journey of Water walk-through attraction.
Noticeably absent from the announcement on Epcot’s World Celebration was the refurbishment of Spaceship Earth. The Spaceship Earth project was originally announced in early 2020 with work set to begin in May 2020. Everything was delayed with the closure of the parks in 2020, but we haven’t heard anything about Spaceship Earth’s update since.
The original plans for the Spaceship Earth update called for extensive changes to the ride’s scenes and even post-show area. One reported plan included demolishing the exit area and changing how guests enter World Celebration after departing the attraction. However, the concept art Disney just released shows what looks like an unchanged Project Tomorrow building.
So, what’s going on with Spaceship Earth?
We know the iconic Epcot attraction has to close at some point for significant work. Putting all changes and updates to show scenes aside, the ride’s track needs work and will require a significant closure. Any big changes to the ride experience itself should happen at this time, but the delay may be due to Disney not having finalized plans or a set budget.
We’ve seen the transformation of Epcot’s World Celebration change fairly drastically over the last couple years. For example, the infamous Festival Pavilion (the one that looked like a coffee table) has been scrapped and Disney is instead rebuilding a portion of Innoventions West (more or less).
If those other World Celebration plans are any indication, there’s no telling what Spaceship Earth’s update might look like or when it might happen.
