Walt Disney World Resort has outlined several projects arriving next year, and among them is a milestone update for a Tomorrowland staple that has been missed by many. Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin, which closed in August 2025, is moving toward a full relaunch with new story layers and enhanced technology that aim to reshape the guest experience.
Disney has confirmed that the attraction will officially reopen in Spring 2026, ending a refurbishment that represents one of its largest transformations since the ride debuted. Work has been underway for months, and the Resort has now offered a closer look at the elements being added.
At the center of the update is a brand-new scene featuring a character named Buddy, developed jointly with Pixar to expand the Space Ranger world in a meaningful way. Buddy’s role will help bring forward additional aspects of the Star Command storyline, giving guests something new to follow as they move deeper into the mission against Evil Emperor Zurg.
The physical experience inside the ride is evolving as well. The classic mounted Z-blasters are being replaced with handheld blasters, marking a shift from the traditional setup guests have known for years. Ride vehicles will also feature onboard video screens that track real-time scores, turning each mission into a more active competition from start to finish.
Disney Parks Blog shared the update in its 2026 Walt Disney World Resort preview, writing: “Across Magic Kingdom in Tomorrowland, I’m ready to take on Evil Emperor Zurg with the help of updated ride vehicles, cool new handheld blasters, and interactive targets at Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin… and guests of all ages won’t need to wait too long to try for that Galactic Hero rank, because the attraction reopens spring 2026!”
Space Ranger Spin is one of several attractions undergoing improvements as part of a park-wide initiative across Magic Kingdom. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is among the other experiences scheduled to return in the same season, creating a coordinated wave of reopenings that will reshape the park’s entertainment landscape.
Guests who have missed stepping into the neon-filled world of Buzz Lightyear will soon have the opportunity to return to the adventure with upgraded tools, expanded characters, and a refreshed approach that honors the original mission while embracing new ideas from Imagineering.
What are your thoughts on the updates arriving at Walt Disney World Resort next year? Drop your impressions for us in the comments.
