Archive for August 16th, 2009

Spaceship Earth, symbol of EPCOT and one of the most beloved attractions in all of Walt Disney World, follows the evolution of human communication from the dawn of time to the 21^st century.

A geodesic sphere, Spaceship Earth is clad in a composite material and designed to channel rain water through small gaps in the exterior and ultimately to the World Showcase Lagoon.  The giant hand and wand, added for the Millennium Celebration, have finally been removed, much to the relief of many.

Inside, ride vehicles transport guests on a gentle, upward-spiraling journey through the millennia, experiencing sights, sounds, and even smells, as they learn about pivotal moments in history when communications took enormous leaps forward.  At the very top, the vehicles move slowly around a curve to reveal the earth, suspended like a jewel in the starry skies.  Sadly, the soundtrack that lent this moment such grandeur has been replaced. Today’s child simply doesn’t have the impact of Tomorrow’s Child.  Updated in 2008, the ride now features some truly extraordinary audioanimatronic figures, and interactive touch screens in the vehicles entertain guests on the way down.

More than any other park, EPCOT embraces the commonality of mankind, the diversity of cultures around the world, and the universal search for knowledge.  Nonetheless, it remains a testament to American ingenuity and creativity, and the legacy of that most proudly American man, Walt Disney.  I understand that Americans adore the British accent, and it has been wonderfully represented by both Jeremy Irons and Judi Dench.  Still, in a country of more than 300 million, surely Walter Cronkite was not the last great American voice.

Spaceship Earth

EPCOT

Wheelchair guests must transfer to the ride vehicle

Assistive listening and captioning devices available

Appropriate for all ages

Park admission required