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'Sup, Tad here, reporting on one of the coolest rides in Tomorrowland: Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin. And big news, everyone — this ride is getting an upgrade, starting sometime in August 2025 and reopening in 2026! From explaining the scoring system to planning your trip around this refurb, I've got all the deets. Let's hop to it.
What Is Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin?
Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin is a slow-moving dark ride located inside Tomorrowland at Magic Kingdom. Based on the movie "Toy Story 2," it opened at the park in November 1998, replacing Take Flight.
But enough about the history! What do you need to know about the ride?
Simply put: the ride itself is cool — and a ton of fun! Once aboard your XP-37 (aka your ride vehicle), you'll fire laser blasters at various Z targets throughout the ride in the ultimate face-off between you and the Evil Emperor Zurg. These static targets are circles with a big letter "Z" in the middle.
The ride takes you through several scenes where you'll be "shooting" at targets on robots, aliens … and even galactic spiders! The final scene (or final boss, rather) is Evil Emperor Zurg! Be sure to smile … or make a silly face here — this is where the on-ride photo is taken.
In total, the ride is about five minutes.
Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin Scores
I love seeing how high my score can go! So, if you're like me, here's what you need to know.
Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin has seven levels/rankings. The points you accumulated throughout the ride determine your ranking:
- Star Cadet: 0 - 1,000 points
- Space Ace: 1,001 - 10,000 points
- Planetary Pilot: 10,001 - 100,000 points
- Space Scout: 100,001 - 300,000 points
- Ranger 1st Class: 300,001 - 600,000 points
- Cosmic Commando: 600,001 - 999,998 points
- Galactic Hero: 999,999 points
I won't spill all the details, but if you want to boost your score, aim for the Z target at the top of the volcano (you can't miss it). Rule of thumb: if the Z target looks impossible to reach, it's usually because it's worth the most points.
New Updates Coming to Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin
Exciting news! Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin will get an update soon! Here's what we know so far:
New Ride Vehicles
The current star cruisers will be reimagined and debut new colors inspired by Buzz Lightyear and Star Command. They will also have video monitors to see your score in real-time. Awesome!
Handheld Blasters
In the current iteration of the ride, the laser blasters are attached to the actual ride vehicle. These new upgrades will now be handheld, helping guests have better aim.
Also, the blasters will have two different laser colors per ride vehicle. One will include an "always-on" laser, so you know where you're aiming. These blasters will also have lighting, sounds and vibrations, enhancing your experience.
Interactive Targets
And speaking of those targets, they are also being enhanced! When you aim your laser at the Z targets throughout the ride, they will now light up when hit. Lily, it's on!
A Brand-New Scene
Perhaps one of the most exciting announcements is that the ride will debut a brand-new scene featuring Buddy! Who is Buddy, you ask? Well, he's your support bot throughout your mission!
As you venture from scene to scene, Buddy will encourage you and ensure you're fully prepared to take on Evil Emperor Zurg!
The refurbishment begins in August 2025, and the ride is expected to reopen sometime in 2026. Check back for details!
FAQs About Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin
Have additional questions about this Tomorrowland ride? I've got you covered:
Does Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin … Spin?
Yes, but it doesn't have to. Each ride vehicle is equipped with a joystick that rotates the ride vehicle. However, if you don't want to use it, you don't have to. This is an omnimover ride, so the track goes in one direction. It's similar to Haunted Mansion.
So far, it doesn't sound like the refurb will change the ride's mechanics.
Does Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin Go Outside?
No, the ride itself does not go outside. However, part of the queue does, so pack some sunglasses and water to stay hydrated.
Is This Ride Accessible?
Disney's Disability Access Pass —or DAS — is a service offered to guests who may need extra assistance. Typically, it is reserved for guests who cannot wait in a traditional standby line. Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin can accommodate guests with a DAS!
The ride also offers other accommodations, including audio description and handheld captioning. Guests in a wheelchair must transfer to the ride vehicle. For more information, check out our blog post, Full List of Disability Access for Disney World Attractions.
Is Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin Suitable for All Ages?
Disney's website lists this ride as suitable for all heights and ages. However, tadpoles 7 and under must be accompanied by a guest 14 years or older.
Is This Attraction Eligible for Lightning Lane?
Yes, it is eligible for Lightning Lane Multi Pass. This paid system allows expedited access for eligible attractions at the Disney parks by making ride reservations through the My Disney Experience app.
Can I Ride Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin During Early Theme Park Entry?
Yes! Since Tomorrowland is open during Early Theme Park Entry, you can ride this and earn that coveted high score! Want to learn more about this benefit for Disney Resort hotel guests? Hop over to our Early Theme Park Entry guide.
Tips for Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin
Here are my top tips for riding Space Ranger Spin:
- Take advantage of Early Theme Park Entry.
- Aim for the top of the volcano and the target on Evil Emperor Zurg's ship to boost your score!
- Smile for the on-ride photo (where Zurg is!).
- Ride early, at night or during the parade. It's busiest in the middle of the day!
Frogs of all ages will love this fun galactic adventure! I love seeing what score I can get, while Mommy Frog loves buying the on-ride photo with Disney PhotoPass as a souvenir.
Enjoy Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin before the refurb begins this summer!
Have you ever reached Galactic Hero status? Let me know in the comments!
Related: Your Guide to Magic Kingdom Lightning Lane Options and Tiers
Related: Guide to Toy Story Land at Disney World
Stay cool!
