Located outside the perimeter of the Walt Disney World Railroad, Space Mountain has been whisking space travelers across the galaxy since it first appeared in Walt Disney World in 1975.
Since Space Mountain, once Florida’s third tallest mountain, opened in Walt Disney World, versions have been built in the other Disney theme parks, including Disneyland in 1977.
Space Mountain is one of only two attractions to debut at Walt Disney World. The Country Bear Jamboree is the other.
Space Mountain has two tracks that are mirror opposites of one another, though one of the two tracks is 10 feet longer.
Thought it may be difficult to tell, Space Mountain travels at about a brisk maximum speed of 28 m.p.h. That speed — or lack of speed — is quite apparent when riding the roller coaster with the lights on.
The idea for Space Mountain dates to the 1960s, when the United States was in the midst of a space race. Yet, when the attraction opened, it was part of a Tomorrowland that featured attractions like Mission to Mars.
However, unlike Mission to Mars, Space Mountain has lasted the test of time thus far and even survived the 1994 makeover of Tomorrowland. The 1994 makeover claimed a couple of attractions, including Mission to Mars.
When the Magic Kingdom unveiled its new Tomorrowland theme, the park added an arcade to the exit of the roller coaster.
Also, the Space Mountain experience didn’t end when the roller coaster came to a stop. Since Space Mountain is located outside of the railroad tracks that circle the Magic Kingdom, guests must pass under the tracks in order to re-enter the Magic Kingdom. To entertain the guests during that trip, the builders erected the RYCA1: Dream of a New World display.
The former WEDway People Mover, now known as the Tomorrowland Transit Authority, passes through Space Mountain, giving viewers a preview of the dark ride. Also, the WEDway People Mover’s storage track circles Space Mountain.
