First Look Inside Refurbished Buzz Lightyear Space Ranger Spin

Disney Shares New Photos Inside the Refurbished Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin

Star Command is officially getting a high-tech upgrade. Today, Disney released a series of new images and video from inside the refurbished Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin, giving fans their clearest look yet at the changes coming to the Magic Kingdom classic. The attraction has been closed for a major overhaul and is currently on track to reopen to guests on April 8, 2026.

@chipandcompany Blast Off Space Rangers! 🚀 We have a First Look Inside Refurbished Buzz Lightyear Space Ranger Spin! It officially opens on April 8th in the Magic Kingdom! #toystory #magickingdom #buzzlightyear ♬ Cycle Syncing Frequency – Still Haven

The new photos highlight several significant improvements to the gameplay and atmosphere of the mission against Emperor Zurg.

Related – Closing Date Announced for Soarin’ Around the World

Redesigned Ride Vehicles and Handheld Blasters

One of the most noticeable changes in the preview images is the updated styling of the XP-37 space cruisers. The vehicles now feature a sleek Star Command aesthetic and, most importantly, brand-new handheld blasters. These updated blasters replace the original fixed versions, allowing for a much wider range of motion and better aim. The blasters also now feature built-in vibration and sound effects to provide immediate feedback when firing.

Advanced Targeting and Scoring Technology

The interactive targets throughout the ride have been completely replaced with digital versions. These new targets feature enhanced lighting effects that react dynamically when hit, making it much easier for Space Rangers to track their success. The onboard scoring screens have also been modernized to show real-time point totals and rank updates throughout the journey.

Meet Buddy the Support Robot

The photos also give us another look at the opening sequence of the ride, which has been reworked to introduce Buddy. Created through a collaboration between Walt Disney Imagineering and Pixar, Buddy is a new support robot who assists Buzz Lightyear in preparing recruits for their mission. Buddy handles system checks and provides encouragement as guests transition from the queue into the star cruiser loading area.

New Hyperspace Projection Effects

For the first time in the attraction’s history, the hyperspace tunnel will feature advanced projection technology. The new images show vibrant digital displays of Buzz Lightyear and Emperor Zurg engaged in battle within the tunnel, replacing the older static lighting effects. These digital enhancements also allow for new “Easter eggs” and hidden high-value targets that will change periodically to keep the gameplay fresh for returning Rangers.

Cast Member previews are now underway for Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin at Magic Kingdom. It officially opens to the public on April 8th.

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