After closing down a major Disney World attraction without warning, Disney has now filed new documents that hint at what changes are coming to this 43-year-old attraction.
Disney World Closes Popular, Beloved Ride: Finally Provides Answers
There’s something oddly comforting about the way Spaceship Earth greets you at EPCOT—massive, still, unchanging. As you pass underneath the shimmering geometric structure, you don’t expect surprises. And yet, a quiet change is on the horizon—one that won’t make headlines but will matter to the millions who call this their favorite ride.
With no fanfare, no announcement, and no blog posts, Disney just gave the green light for construction inside EPCOT’s iconic sphere. The company filed a new permit, and while it doesn’t scream “major refurbishment,” what it implies is worth paying attention to.
What’s actually going on with Spaceship Earth?
The Quiet Filing That Could Mean a Lot More
The official document, called a Notice of Commencement, was filed recently and sets August 25, 2025 as the start date for work inside the attraction. The contractor named is Engineering Design Services, LLC, a group with expertise in mechanical, structural, and electrical systems for entertainment venues.
On the surface, the permit only says “General Construction.” That’s it.
But it’s the kind of vague description that gets EPCOT fans buzzing. Why? Because this is the same kind of permit that’s been used for major behind-the-scenes overhauls in the past. And when you pair that with the contractor’s focus, it becomes clear that we’re not just looking at a coat of paint here.
A Possible Upgrade to Spaceship Earth’s Most Dated Feature
Though Disney hasn’t confirmed any specific changes, recent reports and insider chatter point toward a likely refresh of the in-ride touchscreens. These screens appear during the second half of the ride—the descent section—and allow Guests to “design their future” through a series of multiple-choice questions.
If you’ve ridden lately, you’ve probably noticed the lag, fuzzy images, and general glitchiness. These screens were introduced back in 2008, and in technology years, that’s ancient. A long-overdue upgrade to this system would make perfect sense.
It’s worth noting that Disney is not expected to alter the ride’s narration, overall storyline, or set pieces. Dame Judi Dench will likely continue to narrate the journey through history, and the attraction’s familiar tone and pace will remain intact.
Why It Matters for Fans—and for EPCOT
This move might seem small, but it speaks volumes. While the front half of EPCOT has been undergoing radical changes—with brand-new attractions, interactive experiences, and reimagined neighborhoods—it’s refreshing to see Disney investing in preservation, not just innovation.
Spaceship Earth is more than a ride. It’s the park’s mission statement, brought to life. Keeping it relevant and functional without stripping it of its heart shows that Disney still respects what EPCOT was built to represent.
By filing this permit and setting work to begin in 2025, Disney is also giving itself time to prepare without disrupting high-traffic seasons. It’s a smart, subtle move—but it also shows they’re in this for the long haul.
What to Expect Moving Forward at Disney World
While no specific reopening date has been shared, the current expectation is that Spaceship Earth will reopen later in 2025, possibly before the holiday season kicks in. The work could last a few months, depending on how much is being done behind the scenes.
In the meantime, Guests still have time to enjoy the current experience before any changes roll in. But come next fall, EPCOT’s icon may feel just a little bit different—even if you can’t immediately put your finger on why.
Source: WDWMagic
