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20 May 2006: Alternate version opening day reports
Read some of the opening day opinions on the new dual-version Mission: SPACE on our forums at http://forums.wdwmagic.com/showthread.php?t=75778
19 May 2006: Alternate Mission: SPACE version now open
As expected, the alternate version of Mission: SPACE opened today, which now provides guests with the choice of riding the original, high G version, or the new mild version.
18 May 2006: Update on the alternate ride version
As previously announced, there will be two Mission: SPACE experiences, Orange Team (spinning high G version as before) and Green Team (non-spinning mild version). The current Standby entrance will become Orange Standby, with the current Singles entrance becoming Green Standby. Before anyone can enter the building they will need to have an orange or green pass, which will have to be presented at the end of the line. This pass will ensure that the rider has chosen the correct ride version, and should help to reduce confusion.
The new version is set to be available to guests this Friday.
3 May 2006: Mission: SPACE "no G Force" alternate version officially confirmed
Following yesterday's report of the "no G"
version under testing at Mission: SPACE, Disney did later officially
confirm that the plan would go ahead. It is expected that the
alternate version will be in operation by the summer. The original,
intense version of the ride will remain for riders who wish to
experience it, and that profile will not be changed in any way.
"By offering a second adventure, we hope to broaden the appeal of
Mission: Space and enable even more guests to experience the
attraction," Al Weiss, president of Walt Disney World Resort.
The official press release:
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. (May 2, 2006) -- By the
beginning of summer, Epcot guests will have two options when it
comes to riding Mission: SPACE -- the original thrill attraction and
a new version for those who prefer a milder ride experience.
The new version, which is created by turning off the spinning
centrifuge, may be more suited for some guests, such as those who
are prone to motion sickness or have other conditions. Both versions
will offer an exciting astronaut training experience through a
dramatic story that invites guests to explore a new world.
"By offering a second adventure, we hope to broaden the appeal of
Mission: SPACE and enable even more guests to experience the
attraction," said Al Weiss, president of Walt Disney World Resort.
Signs posted in the queue area of Mission: SPACE will outline the
difference between the two adventures and provide health advisories
appropriate for each experience.
"Providing a choice between two ride options will help to further
encourage all guests to carefully consider posted health advisories
when making their decision," added Weiss.
Mission: SPACE opened in August 2003. Since that time, 11.8 million
rides have been given on the attraction, which simulates the launch,
approach and landing of a futuristic spacecraft on Mars. The
attraction is made up of four separate ride systems, each with its
own centrifuge and programmable simulators.
2 May 2006: Mission: SPACE testing a "no G Force" version of the experience
Over the past few months, there have been some interesting testing sessions taking place in bay 4 over at Mission: SPACE. During quiet times and after hours, WDI and WDW Engineering have been experimenting with running the ride without any G forces from the centrifuge. This is achieved by the centrifuge not rotating during the ride. All other functions of the capsule remain as they currently are, including the movement of the actual capsule on the centrifuge arm. The aim of this testing is to check for feasibility of having the option for guests to ride either the G-Force edition of M:S, or the much tamer no G-Force edition. In this scenario, there would be 2 routes through the queue, allowing guests to choose their experience. The flexibility of the ride system would also allow a ride bay to be switched to either mode quickly, depending on the demand from either queue.
It is important to note from this that the original ride experience is not being removed, nor is it being toned down. Disney are just considering the option of providing a "no G-Force" alternative for those guests who do not meet the current ride requirements, or are afraid to ride the full force Mission: SPACE. Guests would still be able to ride the full, original version of the attraction.
The results of the testing are not yet available, and currently there is no official confirmation about the possibility of this moving ahead.
12 January 2004: Postcard to NASA
LAKE BUENA VISTA,
Fla. (Jan. 9, 2004) -- As NASA's Mars Exploration Rover Spirit beams
back image after astonishing image from Gusev crater this week,
earthlings experiencing Mission: SPACE at Walt Disney World Resort are
enjoying their own "Mars Madness."
Launched last fall and based on actual NASA astronaut training
techniques, Mission: SPACE rockets Epcot guests on an unforgettable
journey to Mars, from thunderous liftoff to touchdown on the Red
Planet so prominent in the news this week.
To celebrate Spirit's success, elated Epcot guests, Disney cast
members and Mickey Mouse and Goofy will sign a giant congratulatory
postcard on Friday outside the attraction, to be mailed to NASA. The
postcard will be available for guest signatures all morning.
Crowds have been eager and nonstop since Mission: SPACE, presented by
HP, opened its doors.
"I'm a space nut anyway," said Epcot guest John Duncan, of Foster
City, Calif., fresh from his own martian landing on Mission: SPACE
Tuesday. "The technology of this attraction gives you a feel for
what's really going on."
"The Rover is real and this was fantasy," said a delighted Randy
Kemberling, of Denver at the attraction's post-show area brimming with
hands-on activities.
The real Mars expedition is stirring the sense of adventure in some.
"Yeah, it made me curious [to try the Mission: SPACE attraction],"
said Amy Taylor of Windsor, Ontario.
Andrew Kemberling concurred: "Because of the success this week on
Mars, I wanted to experience Mission: SPACE and what they've done with
technology," said the Denver resident and brother of Randy Kemberling.
"You feel a part of it -- it brings some reality to what's going on in
space."
What Epcot guests see through the portholes of their space capsule are
computer-generated images from spacecraft that have gone before Spirit
-- including Mars Odyssey and Global Surveyor. It brings a space-scape
millions of miles away to their fingertips.
For those with boundless curiosity about Mars and the planets,
Mission: SPACE becomes the "next best thing to being there" until the
time everyday interplanetary travel becomes a reality.
23 October 2003: Tiger Woods at Mission: SPACE
Tiger Woods aboard Mission: SPACE - Oct. 18, 2003
Copyright 2003. THE WALT DISNEY COMPANY
23 October 2003: Opening Ceremony Photos
Left to right: Carly Fiorina, chairwoman and CEO of HP;
astronaut Mae Jemison; Sean O'Keefe, NASA administrator; astronaut
Guion Bluford; Michael D. Eisner, chairman and CEO of The Walt Disney
Company; and astronauts Buzz Aldrin, Jim Lovell and Wally Schirra at
Mission: SPACE - Oct. 9, 2003
Copyright 2003. THE WALT DISNEY COMPANY
Carly Fiorina, chairwoman and CEO of HP; Sean O'Keefe,
NASA administrator; and Michael D. Eisner, chairman and CEO of The
Walt Disney Company at Mission: SPACE - Oct. 9, 2003
Copyright 2003. THE WALT DISNEY COMPANY
17 October 2003
View the full opening ceremony video here
10 October 2003: Grand Opening Report
Thanks to Dr Albert Falls for this report:
"As soon as we
walked it, there was food everywhere. Big shrimp cocktails, pastas,
and a bunch of other stuff. All of the buffet tables had the most
amazing spinning video screen above them (kinda like those text
message things you swing around to see lighted words, only these were
shaped like perfect globes!)
The bars were PACKED with neon martini glasses with glow sticks
lighting up the drinks. Disney even brought in futuristic-looking
clear plastic tables that were lit with neon lights from below.
We made our way over to Mission:Space for the Grand Opening ceremony
and piled in front of the news cameras. Seeing that building lit up at
night cannot be described. But even more amazing-- just before the
ceremony a full moon appeared above the attraction (we literally
caught ourselves questioning whether it was a Disney special effect,
but it was the real thing)
The stage area darkened and Walter Cronkite's voice boomed over the
loud speakers. As he described the early days of astronomy, two giant
hot-air balloons floating above Mission:Space began showing video
images of what he was talking about. The images shifted from early
dreamers and astronomers, to the first rockets and shuttles, all the
way up to video of Mission:Space itself. As Cronkite described the
stars and rocket launches, single fireballs would streak across the
sky.
The ground began to rumble and a loud roar could be heard. A man
wearing a jetpack rose into the sky and flew around the building. (It
was the same type of jetpack that can be seen in some of those 60's
era Disneyland shows)
When the lights came up, Michael Eisner welcomed everyone. He thanked
the Imagineers for dreaming up this new one-of-a-kind attraction, and
he talked about Walt Disney's love of space exploration.
The president of HP then spoke about one of their company's first
major equipment sales-- to a young Hollywood animator.
The head of NASA took the stage and talked about the need to inspire
young people to pursue space. He then introduced several famous
astronauts, including the 2nd man on the moon, Buzz Aldrin.
The most amazing moment came when a video image was projected on the
wall in front of the building. It showed the two astronauts aboard the
International Space Station. At first we thought it was just a
videotape, but then it became clear Eisner and the NASA guy were
talking to them LIVE!!!!!!!!!
Eisner, with the help of the 2 astronauts orbiting above, urged the
crowd to do a "countdown to liftoff". When it reached zero, a huge
flame shot out of the roof of Mission:Space, and then the skies lit up
in the most amazing fireworks display I've EVER seen!!!!! It was like
daylight!!!!!!
Afterwards, the crowds were let inside to ride it. We chose to go to
the other stage, which was set up in front of the big fountain. Sugar
Ray performed a few songs. It was amazing how close-up we could stand!
Just as we were leaving, the B-52s took the stage.
As you can tell, it was an amazing night. My descriptions can't even
compare to what it was like being there."
9 October 2003: Grand Opening
As part of the grand opening dedication today, astronauts Wally Schirra, Jim Lovell, Buzz Aldrin, Bruce McCandless, Mae Jameson and Guion Bluford Jr. are scheduled to join Michael Eisner, chairman and CEO of The Walt Disney Company, and Carly Fiorina, chairman and CEO of HP.
6 October 2003: Mission Space Grand Opening (Thanks Orlpassholder)
Preparation are well underway for the big press event and the official opening of Mission Space.
25 September 2003: Mission Space Grand Opening press pack
Below is the invitation to broadcasters for the press event in Orlando for the opening of Mission Space, Philharmagic, the new fireworks show WISHES, and the Magical Gatherings theme.
The box has a flap on top that opens up to reveal another triangle shaped box, there is a button at the bottom of the triangle box that when pressed pops up the shuttle from Mission Space, it also has a sound effect that says "lift off" with shuttle sounds that follow.
21 August 2003: Mission Space bus
Sean just sent in this photo from his cellphone camera of one of the new Mission Space wrapped busses
20 August 2003: Some Mission: SPACE facts
Presented by:
HP (Hewlett Packard)
Location: Future World in Epcot (between GM Test Track and
Wonders of Life pavilions)
Timeline: International Space Training Center, year 2036
Height of attraction: 35 feet
Area of attraction: 45,000 square feet
Queuing options: Standby line, singles line, and FASTPASS
Minimum guest height requirement: 44 inches
Precautions: Guests prone to motion sickness or sensitive to
tight spaces, loud noises, simulation or spinning can opt for the fun
of the post-show Advance Training Lab
Planetary Plaza: Anchored with dramatic spheres representing
the moon, Jupiter, a rotating Earth and the red planet. Quotations
from significant persons adorn the area including, "Look Upward...from
this world to the heavens," Plato; "The Universe...stands continually
open to our gaze..." Galileo; and "We set sail on this new sea because
there is knowledge to be gained..." U.S. President John F. Kennedy.
Space Simulation Lab: Anchored by a rotating Gravity Wheel.
Also: a Lunar Rover on loan from the Smithsonian National Air and
Space Museum.
Gravity Wheel: 35 feet in diameter. Cutaway views of living
areas in a habitat designed for space travel.
Ready Room: Crew positions -- pilot, commander, navigator,
engineer. CapCom leading the training mission orientation is actor
Gary Sinise.
Ride bays: 4 bays, each housing 10 X-2 rocket capsules
X-2 rocket capsule configuration: Straight-across seating for a
crew of 4 guests
Total number of guests per each ride cycle: 160
Duration of ride: The entire Mission: SPACE experience, from
pre-show to Advance Training Lab, can last from 45 minutes to more
than an hour. The ride to Mars lasts approximately 4 minutes from
capsule door close to open.
Ride system: State-of-the-art centrifuge technology,
sophisticated visual imaging systems and audio systems. Two primary
computers on the ride system control the entire ride and show
functions of the attraction, including the pitch and roll of each
spacecraft. In addition there are 30 motion-control computers on board
that control altitude during flight. A show-control computer operates
the interactive functions within each capsule.
G-Force: Of less force and less duration than an actual shuttle
launch, and lower intensity than a typical roller coaster
Advance Training Lab: Post-show area includes Space Race, Space
Base, Expedition: Mars, Postcards from Space
Mission: SPACE Cargo Bay: A 1,500-square-foot merchandise
location includes astronaut-inspired gear
12 August 2003: Advertising
Billboards are now appearing advertising Mission Space
11 August 2003: Opening hours
Space is now opening from 9am to 9pm everyday. Remember the ride is still technically in preview stages, so opening is not guaranteed.
8 August 2003: Grand Opening
The grand opening for Mission Space is to be held during the International Press Event "Magical Gatherings", scheduled for October 8 through October 10 2003. Over 3,400 VIP's from the national and international media will be in attendance, where the new 15 month celebration will be announced, Mission Space will be formally opened, and some other new attractions will be unveiled.
October 9 2003, Epcot will be closed to the public, at 3.00 pm.
8 August 2003: Final ride bay operational
The 4th and final centrifuge bay is now operational at Mission Space, meaning the attraction is now capable of running at 100% capacity.
4 August 2003: Photos from the Annual Passholder preview event (Thanks to s25843)
The black wall in front of the pavilion is now removed, and planters are being used to section off the plaza area from the rest of Epcot.
1 August 2003: Buzz Aldrin at Mission Space
MISSION: SPACE STARTING TO 'BUZZ' AT DISNEY WORLD (July 28, 2003): Legendary astronaut Buzz Aldrin takes the controls aboard Mission: SPACE on July 28, 2003, at Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla., during the filming of an ABC television segment that features the new Epcot thrill attraction. Aldrin was joined by actors (L-R): Dhalyn Adams and Tyler Kremer. Aldrin was the lunar module pilot aboard the Apollo 11 mission that landed on the moon July 20, 1969. Mission: SPACE, which opens Aug. 15, 2003, will take Epcot guests on a pulse-racing ride to Mars. Aldrin's television segment will be shown Aug. 15, 2003, on ABC-TV during the network's airing of the feature film "Mission to Mars."
21 July 2003: Update
Mission Space is now opening most days (including weekends) from 1pm until park closing. A third ride bay is also now open, which brings Space up to 75% capacity.
14 July 2003: Update
Another website has released a story suggesting that Mission Space is too intense for guests and that a large numbers of guests are coming off the attraction feeling ill. As a fairly large Mission Space resource, this website has received a lot of guests rider reports since the very first days of the previews. Not a single report submitted to this site so far has made any mention of getting sick on the attraction. The ride is intense, and like any intense attraction, there can be some degree of disorientation, but certainly not to the extent that has been suggested by some other websites.
Tips for riding
- Remember this is an INTENSE THRILL RIDE. Those who are not in good physical condition, or do not enjoy thrill rides, should not ride.
- Follow Cast Member directions, particularly those that direct you to look ahead, with your head back on the headrest. Do not lean forward or look from side to side.
- Do not eat or drink immediately prior to riding.
Another frequently asked question is if you can detect any spinning during the attraction. The answer is no. You may feel a slight disorientation initially (for a fraction of a second), but no riders have yet reported feeling that they are spinning. The ride is also incredibly smooth, with no shaking around or rapid movements.
Remember that this attraction has been researched, tested, and fine tuned by WDI and their consultants for over 5 years. Everything has been done to ensure that the ride has maximum thrill, with the minimum amount of guest discomfort. My advice is to follow the guidelines posted at the attraction, and enjoy. You do not want to miss this attraction!
5 July 2003: More cast previews
July 14-16 will be
M:S Previews for all Disney CM's. The 14th and 15th will be from
1pm-9pm and the 16th will be 8am-4pm.
4 July 2003: Previews continue
Just to update on the previews, they are still continuing weekdays from 4pm onwards, with 2 of the 4 ride bays operational. The remain 2 bays are a couple of weeks away from completion.
26 June 2003: Previews continue
The unannounced guest testing has resumed this week at Space. As before, typical opening times are from 4pm to 9pm.
23 June 2003: Annual Passholder preview(August 1 to August 3) invites (Thanks NaDisney)
13 June: More Media
10 new videos and audio
12 June 2003: Video and Photos
Full Preshow Video online, click here to view
A 100 more Mission Space preview photos online, click here to view
11 June 2003: Ride Capsule photo (Thanks to Room1313@TZTT for the photos)
The photo below left shows the exterior of the ride capsule. The photo bottom right shows the ride console view from the rider seat.
11 June 2003: Mission Space preview details
All being well the following previews should take place this week...
Wednesday and Thursday at 4:00 pm until 9:00 pm.
Friday it will be closed to the public as WDI is having a party for the contract firms that worked on the attraction.
11 June 2003: More coverage of the guest previews
Exterior
Video
High Resolution 320x240 MPG, 10secs duration, 1MB
Thanks to Donickco
"Gates being
opened to guests!" Video
High Resolution 320x240 MPG, 10secs duration, 1MB
Thanks to Donickco
Queue area
Video
High Resolution 320x240 MPG, 10secs duration, 1MB
Thanks to Donickco
Ride Bay and
Exit Video
High Resolution 320x240 MPG, 10secs duration, 1MB
Thanks to Donickco
Another review of the attraction...
Thanks to WDWMAGIC Forum member Dr Albert Falls for this review
"Kind of ironic I got my first ride on Mission:Space
the same day NASA launched a rover to Mars.
In a nutshell-- I have never smiled so huge, so long in my life!
Literally, an ear-to-ear grin!!!!!
!!!!!SPOILERS BELOW!!!!!!!!
!!!!!SPOILERS BELOW!!!!!!!!
!!! THE WORST SPOILERS YOU'VE EVER READ!!!!!
I arrived at the park around 6:15pm and the M:S entrance was closed.
CM's said it -may- or -may not- open tonight.
About an hour later, the gates swung open. People who had been camping
outside began filing in.
Before you enter the building, there is a mock-up of the simulator
capsule and CM's shouting out that "this is an intense ride." The
queue line double-backs a few times outside (but covered) before
heading inside the first of five "waiting rooms".
The first room is the one you've seen with the gravity wheel and
suspended spacecraft. There are many queue switchbacks.
The second room is a hallway with portraits of space pioneers (along
with a few fictional future ones) Opposite the photos is "Mission
Control", which resembles the old "Mission to Mars" preshow area
except everything sparkles with light and color. Behind the props,
real-life CM's can be seen controlling the attraction. Also, on many
monitors is video footage of riders in their capsules (live or
taped???) as well as computer animation of the centrifuge simulator.
(I always assumed Disney would "hide" the centrifuge mechanics , like
they do with the Star Tours hydraulics to maintain the illusion. In
truth, M:S makes the centrfuge technology very visible)
The next room is the "hub" containing four sliding doors (one in each
corner, each eventually leading to the four centrifuges).
Inside each door is a rectangular briefing room (the one with the
video monitors and the space suits). Gary Sinise is perhaps the most
perfectly cast actor in a Disney attraction. Unlike some of the other
cheesy pre-show videos, this one is downright CLASSY. His calm,
inspirational voice just helps build the excitement.
Inside the briefing room, guests are put in groups of four, standing
on one of 16 rows of dots. 8 of the rows proceed through the right
door, the rest go through the left.
Leaving the briefing room, guests enter a circular hallway that
surrounds the centrifuges. A CM leads each group to a door around the
circle. After another short video with Gary Sinise, the doors swing
open.
Walking in the centrifuge, you get a clear view of the mechanics (the
swung-open doors of the capsules prevent you from walking into the
center)
The capsules are the most detailed ride vehicle ever designed. As I'll
explain later, there is a lot of waiting around for the ride to start,
so the detail occupies your time. There are numerous fake buttons and
switches you can play with.
To clear up the speculation... THIS ATTRACTION IS NOT REALLY
INTERACTIVE. Yes, you are instructed to push buttons when lighted. But
the show doesn't change if you fail to act. The buttons and joysticks
are the equivalent of the non-functional steering wheels on the old
Mr. Toad cars. Only this time, they want you to pretend!
As you've read elsewhere, liftoff is the most exhilarating experience
at Disney. Words can't describe it. It is also the most realistic part
of the ride. VERY real.
After reaching outer space, you feel the rocket's second stage being
jettisoned, and then you float out of your seat in zero-G. Again,
words can't describe. The shuttle does a high-G spin around the moon,
you shoot past earth, and then go into "hypersleep" (the cabin goes
dark for a few seconds) You awake in an asteroid field just beyond
Mars. After dodging the rocks, you enter the Martian atmosphere, and
then fly horizontally through the desert canyons (picture zooming
across the Death Star) You eventually attempt to land on an airstrip
using the vibrating "manual pilot" joystick. The shuttle skids off the
end of the runway and teeters on the edge of a deep, snowy canyon,
when suddenly it rocks backwards to a safe landing.
Once exited from the capsule, guests are ushered out a huge warehouse
door into a hallway which leads to the post-show area.
MY THOUGHTS:
** Motion sickness-- I don't do the Teacups. Even the carousel can
make me uncomfortable. With Mission:Space, I DID NOT FEEL LIKE I WAS
SPINNING. However, I did get a bit light-headed from the extreme
G-forces. It was the IDENTICAL sensation I get while riding fast steel
coasters like Kraken and Hulk--- possibly a result of the G-forces
pressing on my chest and making it harder to breathe. For me, it was
almost a welcome light-headedness--- making the experience even more
surreal.
** The ride itself--- Disney may have achieved the first "F-Ticket".
This attraction truly raises the bar. What makes it successful is all
the hands-on detail, along with the unique WAY you ride it (It's not
the familiar "wait in line, sit down in vehicle, stand up after ride
is over". Instead, you feel anticipation build as you proceed through
each step of the adventure.)
Unique experience aside--- I often found myself comparing this ride to
Star Tours. Many elements of the ride film are similar (the asteroid
field, zooming past a planet, the "something-went-terribly-wrong-but-we-were-saved-in-the-nick-of-time"
ending, etc) Of course, the two attractions are light years apart in
terms of technology. (In describing "Rock-n-Roller Coaster", I've
referred to it as "Space Mountain on Acid". M:S is "Star Tours on
Acid".)
** Room for improvement--- Disney still needs to streamline the guest
flow through the attraction Tonight, we spent a lot of time waiting in
each "holding room", even after the video was done. But geez, this is
only their SECOND day with real guests! That's WHY Disney is
conducting these guest tests!!!!!!!!
** Overall--- I can't wait to go back and ride it again! There is just
too much to take in. The visuals, the audio, the unique sensations on
your body. I don't think I'll ever get as close to the sensation of
real spaceflight like I did tonight."
10 June 2003: Guests now riding
Following the trouble free Epcot Cast Previews, yesterday at 4pm, Mission Space opened to guests on a limited basis while Cast continue with Test and Adjust.
9 June 2003: Annual Passholder preview dates
Annual Passholder preview days, August 1-3 2003
6 June 2003: Photos from inside Mission Space (Thanks MKT)
FASTPASS Machines
The Gift Shop
The Queue Area
Costumes
Mission Control
Gravity Wheel
Post Show
6 June 2003: More CM Comments from the previews
Kickman77: "To start out, inside the building is amazing. I did not see the lunar rover but the gravity wheel is awesome. Oh well. It seems that have 4 rooms that hold 40 people each. You are split into rows of 4 (which I guess everyone knew by now) and then you enter your first preflight briefing.
Your commander (played by Gary Sinise) goes over your mission. Not only will you experience the most extreme ride in the world but you have a job to do on it. They warn you over and over that it is intense. After your preshow you are taken to the loading platform for your preflight briefing (mainly they just tell you how to load and put on your seatbelt.)
At this point they
also tell you what your job is on the ride. Basically when a button
infront of you lights up you press it. If you don't press it though,
the computer automatically overrides it for you :-) (nice touch)
OK, so now you are put into a pod and the lower the control panel
infront of you. They warn you not to turn your head but to focus
straight ahead (trust me you need to do this) Then they close the
door. All you see is a silver screen and hear some mission control
mombo jumbo. Then you tilt upwards as the doors open to reveal that
you are looking into a beautiful Florida sky. They count down 3, 2, 1
and liftoff and then holy crap, you feel pushed back into your seat. I
have never felt g-forces like that in my life. It really feels like
your skin is being pulled back on your face. After a few seconds your
actually sustain what I call artificial weightlessness (I do not know
how they do this, but I am a large person and it actually felt like I
was floating for a brief second) Then you launch the second rockets to
slingshot around the moon. Again with these amazing g-forces. After
you are headed in the right path you are put into hyper sleep and will
awake in 3 months.
Three months later you awake in the middle of a meteor shower They call for evasive manoeuvres and you fly left to right. You then fire rockets to enter the atmosphere of Mars and again with the g-forces. Then the computer looses control and that is where the little joystick you guys have seen in the pictures is needed. They tell you which way to turn it. and you land. There is a little surprise at the ending but I do not want to ruin the whole experience for everyone.
All I have to say is the ride is the BEST!!!!! theme park ride I have been on in a long time. It it finally feels like the Disney of old with how they have outdone themselves. Trust em folks this attraction is awesome. Everyone that came off went right back into line (I know I did a couple times and was late coming back from lunch hehehehe)"
4 June 2003: Comments from some CMs from the previews!
SPOILER ALERT - DO NOT READ THE YELLOW TEXT IF YOU DO NOT WANT TO KNOW DETAILS OF THE RIDE EXPERIENCE
MKT:
"The premise is that you are on a training mission to mars. You get
grouped like ToT, with the numbers. You watch the preshow with Gary
Sinise, and he explains the premise behind the X2 shuttles. Then you
wait for a few minutes, and go to your numbers loading area. Once
there, Sinise pops up on a TV screen and explains the positions of
each member in the group. You are assigned positions and wait to
board.
Once you board, the vehicle is IDENTICAL to the photos shown on this
website.
From there, Sinise explains your duties and whatnot.
Then it begins. You lift off and the rest is hard to explain. I just
have to say that it is INCREDIBLE!!!!!!!!!!!!! You are going through
space. The ride vehicle moves, you go weightless, you weigh more.
Those are REAL G's you are experiencing... not a simulator.
Finally, you land on Mars and the ride itself is over. Then on to the
post-show. There's a few interactive games and simulations, as well as
kiosks to send E-Postcards.
Finally, there's the gift shop... . The merchandise selection is
pretty good.. I bought a T-Shirt. AND YOU CAN BUY FREEZE-DRIED ICE
CREAM!!!!! "
SPOILER ALERT - DO NOT READ THE YELLOW TEXT IF YOU DO NOT WANT TO KNOW DETAILS OF THE RIDE EXPERIENCE
MKT:
"...the
ride itself.
You take off, and head into space. You orbit the moon for a second,
and then shoot off and go into Hypersleep. You awake from Hypersleep
to find a meteor shower around you. The autopilot maneuvers you around
it, while the Shields are activated. Once you clear, you are almost in
Mars. You can see Mars ahead of you. The navigator turns on the
Descent engines, and you shoot forward to mars. Then the guests take
control, and with Capcom's help, you steer through a Martian Canyon,
and finally land the X2. However, you overshoot your landing, and
nearly fall down a Canyon.
Then the ride is over, and on to the post show. There is a fairly big
game on the right. Almost like a Space version of Diamonds.
Immediately on the left is the children's play area, followed by a
Mars Rescuer sort of game (kinda fun though), and Finally the postcard
kiosk.
Then the gift shop. It has the required T-Shirts, License Plates,
Pins, and stuff. It also has Model X2's and (like I said before)
Freeze Dried Ice Cream (Vanilla, Chocolate, and Mint Chocolate Chip
were the ones I remember. I think there was also a Fudge somewhere)"
SPOILER ALERT - DO NOT READ THE YELLOW TEXT IF YOU DO NOT WANT TO KNOW DETAILS OF THE RIDE EXPERIENCE
FantasiaBoi: "The queue area is really nice. It looks as if it will be
half inside, half outside. The inside part is really cool. Once you
get close to the ride, you pass what looks to be the Control Center...
and actual CM's are working in it. The side of the console that faces
the guest is all done up with mockup controls and whatnot, the side
that we can't see is probably the rides equivalent of the control
tower.
I didn't like how when we were sent off to stand on the numbers... the
numbers are VERY close to each other, and I felt kind of cramped. I
like my personal space, you know? (By the way, I was not cramped at
all inside the ride itself) This part of the ride, I felt there could
have been more. You wait and wait and wait... then the pre-show comes
on... and it ends, and you wait some more and wait some more. Make the
video longer, so the waiting doesn't feel so long.
From the numbers, you then proceed into another room (Actually, its a
hallway), with more numbers. I can see how this might cause confusion
with some other guests... The video screen that was in this second
"hallway" was on the blip... wasn't as clear as it should have been,
and was flickering and whatnot. I hope they fix that.
There's a lot of following arrows, lines, and numbers. Our "team"
managed just fine, but I could see how some guests may have trouble.
The ride itself is amazing. At the end, I was a little queasy for
about a half hour... nowhere near creating a mess or anything... It
was all good though. I'm thinking those who get motion sickness easily
might want to bypass the ride, and go to the post-show area. (By the
way, I can do Star Tours just fine... but I cannot do Body Wars)
One thing that I really liked... inside the pod... they had fresh air
blowing on you... similar to if you turn on the air in an airplane. I
thought this was a nice touch, and probably helps with the motion
sickness."
3 June 2003
Previews of Mission Space begin today for Epcot Cast Members. The previews are scheduled to run for several days.
The walls have now been taken down from in front of the attraction. It is now garden by Cast Members. (Thanks to Sean for the photos below)
Update on the staffing situation as I currently have it...
There are 26 CM positions at Mission Space, requiring 90 CMs total to run the attraction on an everyday basis. Operations have currently pulled 50% of those 90 needed cast members. This will be enough for Cast Previews and limited guest previews. The second wave of staffing is set to take place after the July 4 holiday, when the cast allocation will be 100%.
30 May 2003
Imagineering previews party is set for tonight, including the hand over to Epcot Operations!
Regular cast preview are set to begin early next week.
27 May 2003
Exterior WalkAround Video
(Listen carefully and you can also hear Test Track do an emergency
stop!!)
High Resolution 720x480 WMV, 1min duration, 10MB
Thanks to Scott Jensen
25 May 2003: Update
All things being well, Imagineering are set to hand over Mission Space to park operations within the next 2 weeks. This is likely to be the day of the first preview for WDI crews and their families. Following the WDI party, the attractions opening date is then in the hands of park management/operations on when they wish to begin soft openings for the public. Baring any problems, it looks as though Space will be taking guests for a spin as soon as mid-late June 2003.
I would also add that people who have ridden this so far are giving it a major thumbs up. Mission Space has become the number 1 ride for them anywhere, period. You are not going to want to miss this ride!!!
REMEMBER, THIS INFORMATION IS NOT OFFICIALLY RELEASED INFO, AND SHOULD BE TREATED AS SUCH. DO NOT PLAN A VACATION AROUND THIS RUMOR. THE OFFICIAL SOFT OPENING DATE REMAINS AUGUST 15 2003.
1 May 2003: Update
Just to update the details below showing tables being installed for an event. It was actually for Michael Eisner, and other senior Disney officials attending a dinner event at Mission Space, where apparently, they all rode the attraction, and had a rather good time!
29 April 2003: Latest Mission Space photos (thanks KeithS)
The photos below show the Mission Space photo opportunity in Innoventions.
The photos below show preparations for a lunch event infront of the attraction. No word on who attended.
22 April 2003: Disney have officially announced that the soft-opening date for Mission Space previews is August 15 2003!
The full official opening is set for October 2003.
22 April 2003: Official Mission Space Imagery
Inside the Ride Capsule
READY FOR THE MISSION — Four guests become a team of astronauts
working together to fulfill a mission when they step into a capsule
and prepare for takeoff at Mission: SPACE. During the thrilling ride,
which gives guests the sensation of blasting off into space, everyone
in the capsule participates in completing the mission by using
joysticks and buttons - all while viewing outer space through their
own video screen. Copyright 2003, THE WALT DISNEY COMPANY.
The Post Show
RACING THROUGH SPACE — Guests become members of the Mission Control
team when they engage in Space Race, a high-energy interactive game
that explores the teamwork needed between Mission Control and
astronauts in space missions. Two teams work against one another to
fix problems on their ship and be the first to arrive at the race
destination. The Mission: SPACE post show, powered by HP, extends the
adventure of Mission: SPACE, a Walt Disney World attraction set for
liftoff at Epcot in 2003. Copyright 2003, THE WALT DISNEY COMPANY.
SPACE ADVENTURE — Space Base, one of four activities in the Mission:
SPACE post show, gives budding astronauts an opportunity to climb,
jump and explore in a space-themed area. The Mission: SPACE post show,
powered by HP, extends the excitement of Mission: SPACE, set to launch
at Epcot at Walt Disney World Resort in 2003. Guests who accept the
mission in this unique attraction will experience the scintillating
sensation of launching into space. Copyright 2003, THE WALT DISNEY
COMPANY.)
OUT OF THIS WORLD — Walt Disney Imagineers Sue Bryan and Bob Zalk are
the co-producers of Epcot's latest thrill attraction, Mission: SPACE.
Set in the future, Mission: SPACE gives guests the exhilarating
experience of a simulated space adventure from pulse-racing lift-off
to the sensations of traveling through space. Copyright 2003, THE WALT
DISNEY COMPANY.
16 April 2003: Latest panoramic photo (Thanks to Steven Jensen)
16 April 2003: Commercial Photos (Thanks Corrus)
Here are some photos of the commercial shoot that has been taking place over the last few days.
15 April 2003: Commercial Shoots
The past couple of days have seen film crews shooting promotional material with actors in front of Mission Space.
10 April 2003: Cast Interviews held
There have been several cast interview sessions held over the last few days to recruit attraction and merchandise hosts for Mission Space.
7 April 2003: FASTPASS machines installed (Thanks to Sean)
The photo below shows the newly installed FASTPASS machines.
18 February 2003: Ride Experience Quote
Here are a few direct quotes from a lucky passenger who has ridden Mission Space.
"The official press release talks of "pulse-racing lift-off." This is not merely marketing spin. "Lift-off" is "pulse-racing," that's for sure."
"It's not all about the physical experience. Much of what makes Mission: Space brilliant is the psychological aspect. In this way the ride really does "push the envelope." There really is nothing else even close to this experience in a theme park. Many people who ride this attraction are going have sore cheek muscles from smiling so much before the ride portion of the attraction has even started. I've never been to a Space Camp, but I can't imagine a more thrilling experience for someone who wishes to be an astronaut than the Mission: Space ride at EPCOT"
15 February 2003: Update
Starting this past week, random guests have been selected to ride Mission Space in order to provide feedback to Imagineering. One of the four ride bays, has one out of ten of it's ride capsules that is ready for guest use, and this is being used during this early testing phase. The remaining nine capsules in the bay are using counterweights to balance the ride system.
Note, that this is preliminary testing to get rider feedback, it is not a public soft opening, and you cannot talk yourself into getting a ride. Selection is of a random nature, and is VERY limited in numbers. Also keep in mind we are talking about 1 pod, in 1 ride bay that is being used. While it is great news that things are progressing well, it does not mean that full soft opening are about to occur. As soon as any news on that appear, it will be published here.
17 December 2002: Photo Update (thanks Keith S)
21 November 2002: Photo update (thanks Scott J)
Here are some current photos taken at night. The external lighting effects on the building are not yet complete.
19 November 2002: Ride System Update
Click here for Ride System update
19 November 2002: Moon Sphere
The markings on the 12ft Moon sphere in the Planetary Plaza in front of the attraction indicate the 30 landing sites of mans missions to the moon between 1959 and 1976. (visible in the photos below)
15 November 2002: Photo Update
Now that the out construction wall has been removed, we have a close up look at the building.
Above left: Some of the floor details around the building.
11 November 2002: News on the construction wall around the pavilion (Thanks to Derek)
"When I was at Epcot yesterday I was looking through a hole in the wall at Mission:Space and saw that there is a new construction wall built right around the actual building/planets and stuff. That leaves about 30 or 40 feet between the old wall and the new wall, which has on it the Mission:Space logo and the whole "For a preview, visit the Preview Center in Innoventions..." thing. Looks to me like this means the old wall is finally coming down soon, leaving a much closer view of the pavilion"
5 November 2002: Latest photos (Thanks matthew@insidedisneyworld.com)
15 October 2002: Latest photos (Thanks Eric M)
Above: Work still continues on the rear of the building in the corporate lounge area.
8 September 2002: Update (thanks ScottJ)
A current photo of the pavilion at night.
24 September 2002: Update (thanks Sean23)
Doors have now be installed on the exit/gift shop area. Work still continues.
5 September 2002: Compaq and HP
There appears to be no Compaq branding inside the pavilion. All logos are HP, with the post show being sponsored by "HP Invent".
3 September 2002: Ride System in Test and Adjust
2 September 2002: Post show
Click Here for details of the post show
21 August 2002: Latest Mission Space Area Photos (thanks BH)
6 August 2002: Building Details
Surround the exterior walls of the building are a number of oval shaped quote plaques, made by people from all over the world and from different eras about some aspect of outer space (spirit of exploration, importance, courage, our significance).
6 August 2002: Line layout and guest flow
The diagrams below show the guest flow patterns to and from the building. The main entry to the building is via the large red/orange planet. From here you can collect a FASTPASS ticket, and then exit to the right of the building past the smaller red/orange planet, or you can enter the main pavilion/ride building. The primary exit is to the far left of the building. There is also a "chicken exit" for those guest that wish to experience the pavilion, but do not wish to embark on the main event of the attraction (similar to the Tower of Terror chicken elevator concept).
Click each image below for a larger version of the diagram.
5 August 2002: FASTPASS
The illuminated displays that are visible just inside the large red planet entry area are the FASTPASS entry points, and include:
- FASTPASS Distribution
- Single Riders Line
- STANDBY Line
- FASTPASS Return Line
Thanks to Sean23 for the info.