Astro Orbiter is Returning to the Magic Kingdom After Completely Being Removed in January. Significant changes are underway in Tomorrowland at Disney’s Magic Kingdom. A large crane has returned to the area, signaling the next phase in the refurbishment of the Astro Orbiter. Over the next few days we will see the full return of the orrery and the ride.
The crane is blocked off by construction walls surrounding The Launching Pad, and towards the side where Star Command Headquarters and the entrance to Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin are. Pack some patience when walking around this area.
Last January 22nd, 2025, guests observed the removal of the rockets and celestial decorations (orrery) from the top of the Launching Pad platform. Back then, the entire Astro Orbiter attraction had been completely removed. Given that the ride platform sits approximately three stories above ground level (some even speculate it’s the fourth floor if the Utilidors are considered the true first level of Magic Kingdom), the arrival of the crane and the presence of construction walls around the Launching Pad strongly suggest that the refurbishment required a complete reinstallation of the ride system.
The Astro Orbiter is anticipated to return this summer. This complete removal mirrors a similar refurbishment process undertaken at Disneyland’s Tomorrowland last year. However, the Magic Kingdom’s Astro Orbiter presents a unique challenge due to its elevated position and the presence of an orrery surrounding the base. According to the Walt Disney World website, Astro Orbiter will be temporarily closed for refurbishment beginning January 13, 2025, and is planned to reopen in the summer of 2025.
Speaking of orreries, here’s a quick science tidbit: an orrery is a mechanical model of our Solar System, illustrating the relative positions and movements of the planets and their moons based on a heliocentric model (with the Sun at the center). Disney Imagineering incorporated a non-moving decorative orrery at the summit of the Astro Orbiter, adding a touch of celestial wonder to the attraction.
Astro Orbiter is Returning to the Magic Kingdom After Completely Being Removed in January
