Mission: Space

This Article Was Contributed by Mike M.

Mission Space
Disney Magic goes to new heights!

Mission space is an incredible adventure for all those over 44 inches. When you first approach the ride you see a large replica of the planet Mars, the Sun, and planet Earth with a spacecraft (the X-2 rocket) in orbit overhead. As you enter or exit the main ride queue area (Planetary Plaza) you will notice several plaques of quotes from astronauts and astronomers. Take time to enjoy the history of flight and read these quotes.

The second queue area (International Space Training Center) has a huge replica of a spinning space station simulator, a real space rover and other various futuristic devices that Nasa is dreaming up for space flight. As you move through the lines you will go past the Command Room. In this area are many interesting plaques commemorating all the "Firsts" in space flight. The third queue area (Ready Rooms) is where you line up in teams of 4 for training for you mission. Don't panic! When you are on the ride, just remember what job you have been assigned (Engineer, Navigator, Pilot, Commander) and you will be reminded what to do each time you are supposed to perform your duty by Capcom (Actor Gary Sinise).

The fourth queue area is where you wait to board your simulator. The simulator is basically a centrifuge that spins so fast you will experience 2.5 g's. Your group of 4 enters the pod and as the previous group exits the pod. The control panel and joy stick move right up to your face so you can perform your duties. You will actually feel like you are lifting off as the g- forces sink you deeper into your seat. The roar and rumble of lift off is an amazing experience. You will then approach the outer atmosphere of earth and feel weightlessness before being catapulted around the moon to pick up extensive speed on your trip to Mars. You will then be put to sleep for your long journey... but then warning signals and buzzers suddenly awakens you. You have to make emergency maneuvers to save yourself, your friends and your mission! Grab hold tight of the joy stick and do what you are told by Capcon and your mission will not fail.

As you exit the ride there is an extensive training area where you can play interactive games. My favorite was the large group game that simulated mission control working with the space crew on a spacecraft. In the souvenir shop make sure you look for the two hidden Mickey's. Here is a clue: Look on the wall to the left as you exit the gift shop. There is a classic Mickey and profile Mickey to find!

My family loved this ride and I give it a 10 out of 10. If you are a person who has a tendency for motion sickness just don't eat before the ride or after the ride. While ridding make sure you look straight ahead into the TV. Screen the entire time. The only time that I got queasy was when I was looking at the kids and not the screen. No one in our group of 13 got sick and we rode it twice in a row with no wait.

This is your mission... if you dare!

Last Updated: May 9, 2009