Astro Orbiter (facts, history & tips)

Astro Orbiter is similar to attractions like Dumbo the Flying Elephant and The Magic Carpets of Aladdin, but space-themed.

The ride gives guests the chance to “pilot” a spaceship high in the sky. Plus, you get some stunning views of Tomorrowland and other park areas.

In this article

Quick Facts

Location: Magic Kingdom, Tomorrowland
Height Requirement: None
Description: Although this ride looks similar to Dumbo, it’s much higher and faster.
When to Visit: Typically at opening/within the first hour.
Recommended: Only as a time filler
Tip(s): At night, you get a fantastic view.
Genie+, Individual Lightning Lane Selection, or Virtual Queue: Astro Orbiter is not available with Genie+ or as an Individual Lightning Lane Selection
Scheduled Refurbishments

Everything You Need To Know About Astro Orbiter

Location

You can find Astro Orbiter in the heart of Tomorrowland. Here’s the location on the map.

Height Requirement

There isn’t a height requirement for Astro Orbiter. We have guides on other WDW thrill rides and height requirements for attractions at other theme parks and water parks.

Rider Switch & Single Rider

Astro Orbiter doesn’t have Rider Switch or a Single Rider Line available.

History

Before becoming Astro Orbiter in 1994, guests were able to experience a “space flight” on the Star Jets in Tomorrowland, which you can see below.

The Star Jets first opened in November 1974 and certainly contributed to the space vibe of the land in Magic Kingdom.

The ride vehicles were even modeled after the Apollo-Saturn rockets and propelled guests up to 60 feet above the park.

The opening of Star Jets happened alongside Tomorrowland’s expansion to include Space Mountain and Carousel of Progress.

And when the Astro Orbiter opened in the early ’90s, not only did it add yet another updated attraction to Tomorrowland, but also a solar system to the skyline of the park.

Queue

The queue for Astro Orbiter isn’t an interactive one, but it is unique in the sense that guests have to take an elevator to board the ride.

The majority of the outside queue is on ground level. Once you get to the front of the line, a Cast Member will direct you onto an elevator that takes you up to the actual attraction.

Motion Sickness

Even though Astro Orbiter isn’t one of the big thrill rides at Disney World, it is high up and you spin around in a circle that may cause some people to feel ill or dizzy. If you need it, we have a guide on motion sickness that’s filled with information and tips.

Ride Vehicles

Two guests can fit into each ride vehicle that resembles a rocket. One guests sits in the front, with the other in the back. You do not sit side by side.

Larger riders will sit in the back and smaller guests will sit in the front, so adults should sit behind little ones.

There is also a fabric seat belt that goes over each guests’ lap for safety.

Is It Kid-Friendly?

Yes, Astro Orbiter is kid-friendly. But, keep in mind that it is much higher than Aladdin and Dumbo. Plus, it spins a bit faster. We have a full guide on several other things that might scare little ones at WDW.

PhotoPass/On-Ride Photos

Your photo isn’t taken on Astro Obiter.

If you want more information on this, be sure to check out our PhotoPass and how Memory Maker works guides.

Video

Here’s what it’s like to ride a rocket, well, actually just Astro Orbiter.

Other Fun Details

Easter Eggs: N/A
Play Disney Parks: N/A
Movie Connections: There aren’t any movie connections.