Space Mountain - new star effect testing

[EPCOT1982]

It looks like a new star effect is being tested for the upcoming rehab of Space Mountain. It has also been reported that the Space Mountain rehab is going to be used as one of the driving forces to combat the Universal Harry Potter addition.

Screamscape:

...keep your eyes peeled in the darkness of Space Mountain, because you just may spot a few new “star” effects being tested for the upcoming rehab. While no one is saying exactly what will be approved on the final budget, I’ve been told we can expect a complete remodel of the stations and exit areas.

(7/26/07) Sources tell us that the planned Space Mountain upgrade is looking at a possible 12-18 month time frame to complete and that it will now involve far more than previously thought. If the rumors are true, Disney’s game plan is to use the re-launch of Space Mountain as one of their main weapons against Universal Orlando’s Harry Potter project.

[nbodyhome]

I would be delighted to see Space Mountain renovated (though I actually prefer it to Disneylands version).

BUT, I can't imagine Disney doing anything that will keep Harry Potter fans on Disney property instead of going to Universal for the day. I am not a HP fan (I just haven't read the books), but Universal scored on that one. I'm actually looking forward to seeing what they do with it!

[mikeland]

It's about time WDW's Space Mountain gets a little TLC.

[tofubeast]

Well, I think it is a great thing. Much needed. BUT, I still am going to want to check out the HP additions (unless it gets awful reviews!!)

[Bill]

I have an AP to Universal anyhow, Universal will see just as much of me (if not more) when Harry Potter opens. lol

But those new stars have been there for 3 months.

[JCSkipr79]

poor poor delusional MK, thinkng the rehab/redo of a 32yo ride, is going to compete w/ the EEE Ticket extravanagnza of Wizarding World. gimme a break..................

[Peterwhite171]

poor poor delusional MK, thinkng the rehab/redo of a 32yo ride, is going to compete w/ the EEE Ticket extravanagnza of Wizarding World. gimme a break..................

Totally agree!

[EPCOT1982]

i agree, but as the article says, it's "one" of their main weapons against the HP, in other words, there will be more than one. This is actually a good thing that Disney at least is trying to fix up their parks to try to compete with Universal somehow.

I totally agree with all of you that Universal scored high getting the HP world added to their parks. As a continuing Universal AP holder, expect me to also frequently visit Universal to check this out.

[kcnole]

Just more proof that having a great park at Universal is good for Disney because they can't stay complacent.

[nbodyhome]

Just more proof that having a great park at Universal is good for Disney because they can't stay complacent.

That is how I feel. I prefer Disney over Universal, but I am glad Universal has HP. That means Disney had to be proactive. But the HP land is HUGE, Disney can't really compete per se. If someone is a HP fan - and there are millions, they'll want to go to see the new attractions.

Had Disney picked up HP - can you imagine? They would have ended up crushing everyone. They won't do that with some stars in SM.

[EPCOT1982]

all i have to say is, as long as Disney has Mickey Mouse, forget about Universal really competing. Remember, the HP popularity would probably dissipate as years pass, especially years after the release of the final movie.

[Smudger]

Remember, the HP popularity would probably dissipate as years pass, especially years after the release of the final movie.

I completely agree think in 10 years time the films will be out dated the special effect will be old unlike Disney cartoons and Pixar films which don't rely on these state of the art effects and looks as good now as they did when they where released look at Peter Pan for example and Snow White both old but both still watched by new generations like they where brand new.
Also i can say unless HP land has any new amazing ride technology i wont bother going. Any way thats just my 2 cents

[Space Junk]

i havent heard anything about this new star effect, but i do know we are getting upgraded digital projections and sound. In addition, the "remodeling" of the load and unload stations will likely be minimal, but will include load gates (which we REALLY need). I hope they do make the stations more exciting though as they could use a refurb. I had heard a rumor at one point that they would enclose the load station to preserve show during down times and to make the ride exponentially darker. I'll post any and all details I can get my hands on from WDI or the managers, but for now, im off to work the mountain!! bye for now!!

[ChrisFL]

I completely agree think in 10 years time the films will be out dated the special effect will be old unlike Disney cartoons and Pixar films which don't rely on these state of the art effects and looks as good now as they did when they where released look at Peter Pan for example and Snow White both old but both still watched by new generations like they where brand new.
Also i can say unless HP land has any new amazing ride technology i wont bother going. Any way thats just my 2 cents

Pixar doesnt rely on state-of-the-art effects? and HP WILL have amazing new ride technology, Universal has exclusive rights to the Kuka Robotic arm for 10 years to put into an attraction...99% chance it will be in HP land

[WDW1974]

The budget for this redo has (and I believe continues) to have more scratches than the arms of a heroin addict.

While a truly 21st century version of Space Mountain would be terrific, I have my doubts about what will actually happen, and if Disney execs think this will keep people from heading to see the HP land at IOA, they're nuttier than a pecan farm.