Since our last update at the Astro Orbiter, a lot has changed. A big milestone today as the crane has returned to Tomorrowland, signaling the beginning of reconstruction for the ride.
Large Crane Returns To Tomorrowland For Astro Orbiter Reconstruction
The crane, unlike the last one, is of a darker color but is made by the same company, Liebherr.
The construction walls in Tomorrowland are the same as last time. Covering the same area as last time when the orbiter was taken apart.
While it doesn’t block anything largely important in the land, it does block the area around the entrance to Buzz Lightyear Space Ranger Spin, making it harder to walk around this area of the land.
Very similar signage is in place along the fences. “Paging Mr. Morrow” is on a few along with some other variations of wording.
Elevator Gantry and Ride Structure Repainted
In addition to the crane being added back, the skeleton of the ride structure has been repainted. A few weeks ago, on April 17th, we snapped some photos of it being repainted.
In addition to the primer paint in the pictures above, you can see they started repainting the Astro Orbiter’s Elevator Gantry. They were once all the orange-red color that you can see in the middle of the elevator gantry.
Now you can really see the results. The gantry has been fully repainted (minus the ones on the inside).
Additional Photos Of Astro Orbiter Construction 5/5/2025
When Will Astro Orbiter Re-Open At Magic Kingdom?
Disney has still yet to announce the re-opening date for Astro Orbiter at Magic Kingdom. Since the crane is back, it is likely to be soon. Depending on the ride system changes, some testing may be required. That would extend the closure. We do know Buzz Lightyear Space Ranger Spin will be closing in August 2025 to receive a major overhaul. We don’t expect it to be closed when Buzz goes under refurbishment.
This is a continued series of posts for Astro Orbiter’s refurbishment. Here’s a list of posts:
- Planets and Ride Structure Removed – Astro Orbiter Construction Update 1/26/2025
- Crane Removed From Tomorrowland Astro Orbiter as Refurbishment Slows- Magic Kingdom 2/4/2025
For more updates, please stay tuned to RideRover!
