Disney World’s Buzz Lightyear Ride Under Refurbishment, but Theming Shines at Entrance. Even with Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin temporarily closed, Walt Disney Imagineering is ensuring guests are kept in the loop. They’ve done a great job of conveying that the attraction’s downtime is for a positive refurbishment, building anticipation for the improved experience that awaits guests in 2026 when the ride reopens.
Until that time, Disney Imagineering has decided not to just put up walls blocking off the entrance and queue area. They have put up an overlay on the front doors letting guests know that “Operations Suspended”. Here is exactly what the new entrance overlay says:
OPERATIONS SUSPENDED
Star Command Code, Section 2-3A.C/D_9V:
Crystolic fusion power cells depleted.
Initiate immediate Recharge Protocols.
All launches are postponed until resource acquisition units return.
PLEASE PROCEED TO ADJACENT MISSION ZONES.
Fans of Toy Story can head to theaters on September 12th, 2025, and see the movie when it is re-released for the 30th Anniversary. Plus, new Toy Story Popcorn Buckets are coming to theaters.
Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin is closed on Aug 4th and will reopen sometime in 2026. Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin in Magic Kingdom’s Tomorrowland is an interactive dark ride that combines the fun of a carnival shooting gallery with a classic Disney omnimover ride system. It’s inspired by the “Toy Story” franchise, specifically focusing on Buzz Lightyear’s mission to defeat his arch-nemesis, Evil Emperor Zurg.
Changes coming in 2026 to Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin include all-new, redesigned ride vehicles, which will now feature video monitors for real-time scoring. Guests will also be equipped with new handheld blasters, providing better aim with always-on lasers, along with new lighting, sound, and vibration effects for a more immersive shooting experience.
Furthermore, the static “Z” targets throughout the attraction will be replaced with interactive versions that light up and react when hit, offering more dynamic feedback. Finally, a brand-new scene featuring a supportive robot named “Buddy” will be added at the beginning of the mission, helping Space Rangers prepare and practice with the updated interactive targets before their adventure against Emperor Zurg.
Disney World’s Buzz Lightyear Ride Under Refurbishment, but Theming Shines at Entrance
