Spaceship Earth at Epcot was scheduled to close May 26, 2020 for the start of a lengthy refurbishment that would update show scenes, add new scenes and address the ride’s structural systems. Recently, the Walt Disney World website was updated to show Spaceship Earth’s status as closed for refurbishment, but a new report suggests the refurbishment project has been delayed.
According to the union that represents attractions cast members, and later confirmed by Disney insider Martin Smith, Spaceship Earth’s refurbishment has been postponed indefinitely and will reopen when Epcot reopens in July.
Smith later notes that he still anticipates an update for Spaceship Earth at some point in the future, but it’s uncertain if it will be one of Disney’s projects that will be scaled back due to budget cuts. Disney has stated they are looking to save $900 million in capital expenditures over the next year. They will accomplish that goal through cancelled, delayed and scaled back construction projects.
Disney has not officially confirmed whether or not guests will be able to enjoy Spaceship Earth when Epcot reopens on July 15.