Perseverance Rover tracks have debuted at Mission: SPACE at EPCOT after a collaboration between Imagineering and NASA.
The Mars sculpture is still in poor condition, with visible wear and tear on the red planet.
Walt Disney Imagineering & @NASA combined the magic of space & Disney to update an in-park display recreating the surface of Mars in Mission: SPACE at EPCOT. 🚀 pic.twitter.com/hR7c6hOTda
“NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory provided images captured by [the Perseverance rover] as reference for our artisans, a 3D print file to recreate sample tubes used on Mars, and loaned a prototype wheel of the Perseverance rover to create tread marks identical to those currently on Mars,” said Disney in a post on X.
The old Spirit and Opportunity tracks disappeared after a pavement refurbishment back in August 2023.
Venturing into the heart of Epcot at Walt Disney World, guests encounter an attraction that offers a taste of interstellar exploration like never before. Mission: SPACE takes visitors on an exhilarating journey through space, simulating the thrill and excitement of space travel while providing a truly immersive experience.
The attraction is divided into two different experiences, allowing guests to choose between two levels of intensity: Orange Team and Green Team. The Orange Team offers a more intense and thrilling experience, simulating the sensation of a spacecraft launch and providing a more authentic feeling of the forces exerted on astronauts during liftoff. The Green Team, on the other hand, provides a gentler experience with reduced forces, making it a suitable option for those who might be sensitive to motion.
No matter which team you choose, the Mission: SPACE experience is designed to transport you into the heart of a space mission. The attraction’s preshow prepares guests for their cosmic adventure, offering insights into the mission ahead and providing a glimpse into the excitement and challenges of space travel.
As the attraction begins, guests are enveloped in the captivating world of space exploration. The combination of advanced motion simulation technology, stunning visuals, and a specially designed centrifuge creates a sense of weightlessness and realism. From the moment the engines roar to life to the moment you dock with the International Space Training Center, every moment is crafted to make you feel like a true astronaut on a daring voyage.
One of the highlights of Mission: SPACE is the realistic sensation of G-forces. The centrifuge spins and tilts, replicating the physical sensations astronauts experience during different phases of space travel. Whether you’re gripping the control panel during liftoff or feeling the gentle pull of gravity as you orbit Earth, the experience is designed to be both exhilarating and educational.
Mission: SPACE also emphasizes teamwork and communication. Each guest takes on a specific role within the spacecraft, such as navigator or pilot, and success relies on cooperation and effective communication among the team members. This adds an element of interactivity that enhances the overall experience.
In addition to the intense and captivating ride, Mission: SPACE offers guests the chance to learn more about space travel, space history, and the future of space exploration. The attraction’s post-show area features interactive exhibits, displays, and artifacts that provide insights into real-life missions and advancements in space technology.
In conclusion, Mission: SPACE offers an extraordinary and thrilling adventure for visitors of all ages at Epcot. Whether you’re seeking an intense and realistic space experience or a gentler introduction to interstellar exploration, the attraction offers an immersive journey that captures the spirit of adventure and discovery. So, if you’re ready to embark on a mission to the stars, make sure to include Mission: SPACE on your list of must-visit attractions at Walt Disney World.
The EPCOT serigraph poster collection continues with two new limited release posters now available on shopDisney. These posters feature fan-favorite Horizons and Mission: Space. The Horizons poster was available last July but quickly sold out; Mission: Space was available last February.
Both re-released posters are the beautiful work on Eric Tan. They retail for $99 and are only available until June 30.
In celebration of the original EPCOT attraction Horizons (1983-1999), this fine art lithograph was created by artist Eric Tan. The limited release poster replicates the forward-looking vision of the attraction, which was located on the current site of Mission: SPACE.
Limited Edition EPCOT Mission: Space Serigraph Poster – $99
Designed by Disney artist Eric Tan, this limited release fine art serigraph has been created using the same process as the original Disney Parks attraction posters. The X-2 Deep Space Shuttle launches out of Earth’s atmosphere in this abstract composition inspired by EPCOT’s Mission: SPACE attraction.
