Sometimes when things are being planned, the imagination soars far above what can actually be achieved. Case in point, Disney's Space Mountain. Although this is a great attraction, what was planned was probably even cooler.
First, a little history. Space Mountain was originally dreamed up in the mid 1960's as a way to tap into America's fascination with the space race. It was to be built at Disneyland (Walt Disney World didn't exist yet) and was to be called Space Port. In a way, it was a "next generation" Rocket to the Moon, and would allow guests to blast through space in a dark, indoor roller coaster...well, mostly indoors. Take a look at this:
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| Illustration from a 1968 Disneyland map |
Those things that look a lot like coaster tracks on top of the ride building were supposed to be exactly that. So, part of the ride would be indoors, and part out. Notice, also, that the building is pretty much square, not round as it eventually turned out.
Unfortunately, two major problems arose with the project. First, the technology didn't exist to run multiple trains on the same track. Computers just weren't up to the task of keeping track of individual coaster trains. Second, Walt Disney passed away in 1966, which put many projects on the back burner...or killed them completely.
But Walt's indoor space coaster was going to be built. By 1973 computers had evolved enough to do the required task. Also, a whole new park had opened in Florida that had a Tomorrowland that really needed a star attraction. So, in 1975, Space Mountain opened 3000 miles away from where it was originally intended.
Disneyland was not forgotten, however. In 1977 their version opened as well. In fact, there are now versions of the iconic ride in five Disney parks world wide. In Paris, guests are even outside briefly!
So there you go. The world's first space race roller coaster is still going strong. Hopefully we can say the same about the space program soon!
Until next time, fly 'em fast and high!
