Every time I see a giant pile of dirt, I think of the WDWMagic forums.
I mean, I like the actual coaster track construction aspect of these photos, but I also became aware that I was spending more time looking at the giant piles of dirt in the foreground and trying to figure out whether they were there to be used elsewhere or whether they were serving for ground compaction where they were sitting. Since I only learned of the technique for using giant piles of dirt for ground compaction here on the forums, I will forever associate the technique with these forums. Hence, whenever I see a giant pile of dirt, I will think of these forums.
I just cannot believe they would consider removing this iconic structure. When I was a kid it was so intimidating when I would refuse to go on it. Now when I see it I get excited and cannot wait to experience it even in its poor state. Unless the actual building was structurally compromised I just can't see this happening.While it's a thought in many peoples minds, I like to think it won't happen.
Space mountains ride capacity looks to be 1800-2000 people per hour which is one of the higher ones in the MK. Considering the ride is almost never a walk on, then it's doing the job it is supposed to do and is still a major draw for guests.
If they are trying to grow overall capacity, then it would be counterproductive to toss such a large people eating attraction out. Space mountain is a proven attraction with solid throughput and guest demand in the Magic Kingdom. If they were planning to retrack the ride back in 2010, then lots of the prework has already been done and paid for. Things like track replacement strategy, building evaluation, track design work and cost estimates would have already been done. I think they are just spreading the cost out over a few years. Once Tron is up and running Space Mountain will go dark for a bit while they refresh the track. Who knows, maybe can get some animated props while they are in there too
Here is to hoping we see space mountain go another 44+ years with Tron right next to it
To be fair, a proper revamp of Space Mountain could incorporate new theming to further differentiate the two. As far as the coaster experience by itself goes, I’d argue Space Mountain is closer to Big Thunder than it is TRON as it stands.
The version of Space Mountain most similar to the Matterhorn is the original at the Magic Kingdom. Even then, Space Mountain was not the result of “How do we update the Matterhorn?”
Overhead scenery failed on Big Thunder Mountain at Disneyland Paris but no one was killed.
They are only similar in that both have track, coaster cars, and at least some portion inside. Everything else is different, including the launch, seating, effects and layout.
