Mission: SPACE -- no G-force testing

[wbk]

WDWMagic is reporting the following regarding Mission: SPACE--

2 May 2006: Mission: SPACE testing a "no G Force" version of the experience

Over the past few months, there have been some interesting testing sessions taking place in bay 4 over at Mission: SPACE. During quiet times and after hours, WDI and WDW Engineering have been experimenting with running the ride without any G forces from the centrifuge. This is achieved by the centrifuge not rotating during the ride. All other functions of the capsule remain as they currently are, including the movement of the actual capsule on the centrifuge arm. The aim of this testing is to check for feasibility of having the option for guests to ride either the G-Force edition of M:S, or the much tamer no G-Force edition. In this scenario, there would be 2 routes through the queue, allowing guests to choose their experience. The flexibility of the ride system would also allow a ride bay to be switched to either mode quickly, depending on the demand from either queue.

It is important to note from this that the original ride experience is not being removed, nor is it being toned down. Disney are just considering the option of providing a "no G-Force" alternative for those guests who do not meet the current ride requirements, or are afraid to ride the full force Mission: SPACE. Guests would still be able to ride the full, original version of the attraction.

The results of the testing are not yet available, and currently there is no official confirmation about the possibility of this moving ahead.

[pouncingpluto]

Cool... I hope they do this. It would work for all of us seasick people who love Mission Space in theory.

[2Xited4Disney]

This sounds like an excellent plan by the immagineers. Many guests, including myself will not ride M:S for a variety of reasons (Mine is motion sickness). Todate M:S is the ONLY attraction in WDW I have not been on, and I feel like I am missing out

[Mickmse2002]

Interesting concept. This sounds like a creative way to "salvage" the attraction in the eyes of a lot of guests.

[flatline]

so people will sit in a capsule and press buttons while watching a low-res movie? sounds like a lot of fun. the next thing will be people that get off claiming there needs to be BP monitors before the loading platforms to help them decide which version to ride.

[pouncingpluto]

so people will sit in a capsule and press buttons while watching a low-res movie? sounds like a lot of fun. the next thing will be people that get off claiming there needs to be BP monitors before the loading platforms to help them decide which version to ride.

This is no different than what they did in Body Wars and are still doing in Star Tours. The movie playing without the motion. While it may sound less than thrilling to you, it's a great option for those of us who would altogther miss out on the attraction.

As a healthy 28-year-old, I may not need a blood pressure check, but I certainly want to avoid anything that makes me feel sick for about two hours, like MS does.

[Chuck S]

If they still have the casule movement without the spinning G-force, I would think when it tips forward for the landing the over-shoulder safety bar would be very uncomfortable.

Also, it would be very easy and inexpensive to make a few copies of the passenger capsules that are stationary (they wouldn't need to be attatched to a centrifuge at all, just a simple tilt mechanism) and install them in an adjoining building or near the exit games...they then could use all 4 centifuges and not shut one down if only a handfull of folks want to ride without the spin.

[DC7800]

WDWMagic is reporting the following regarding Mission: SPACE--

2 May 2006: Mission: SPACE testing a "no G Force" version of the experienceThe aim of this testing is to check for feasibility of having the option for guests to ride either the G-Force edition of M:S, or the much tamer no G-Force edition. In this scenario, there would be 2 routes through the queue, allowing guests to choose their experience

This is an innovation which is long overdue, but it could (and should) be applied to attractions besides just Mission Space. There are many guests who physically are excluded from attractions such as the Tower of Terror or Space Mountain. But, there are many, many more persons who probably could ride, but who choose not to, due to the "thrill-ride" nature of the experience. A tamer, more sedate ride experience would open these attractions to (virtually) everyone, while preserving the "thrills" Disney seems to think it needs. Indeed, ToT need only (dramatically) slow the descent of the "drop" elevator to create a ride version which can be enjoyed by a wider audience.

[seashoreCM]

I thought that a half-chicken* line would be a no-brainer. I guess there are six capsules each holding four so after 24 people have entered the chicken coop from the on-deck circle then the next ride cycle is run more sedately.

*The complete-chicken exit leading directly to the games and gift shop area will continue to exist.

Disney hints:
http://members.aol.com/ajaynejr/disney.htm

[JMD]

This is an innovation which is long overdue, but it could (and should) be applied to attractions besides just Mission Space. There are many guests who physically are excluded from attractions such as the Tower of Terror or Space Mountain. But, there are many, many more persons who probably could ride, but who choose not to, due to the "thrill-ride" nature of the experience. A tamer, more sedate ride experience would open these attractions to (virtually) everyone, while preserving the "thrills" Disney seems to think it needs. Indeed, ToT need only (dramatically) slow the descent of the "drop" elevator to create a ride version which can be enjoyed by a wider audience.

I don't understand why Disney needs to change their rides for a "wider audience". The rides should be experienced the way they were intended to be. Obviously there is a big enough demand for thrill rides that Disney feels they need to keep adding them.

WDW has something for everyone already. Not ALL rides are intended for ALL people. If someone doesn't like thrill rides, then its their decision to ride it or not. Should they add a roller coaster verson of "Its a Small World", so those that love thrill rides will have a more enjoyable experience on the ride?

[Chuck S]

I thought that a half-chicken* line would be a no-brainer. I guess there are six capsules each holding four so after 24 people have entered the chicken coop from the on-deck circle then the next ride cycle is run more sedately.

*The complete-chicken exit leading directly to the games and gift shop area will continue to exist.



Aren't there 10 capsules per centrifuge? The pre-show has 10 lines on the floor. Making it 40 guests per centrifuge per cycle.

[Buzz2001]

Disney to tame Epcot's Mission: Space ride
Park to offer a toned-down version of ride for visitors


Scott Powers and Beth Kassab | Sentinel Staff Writers


Less than a month after a second person died after riding Mission: Space, Walt Disney World is reworking its hazardous but popular Epcot ride to offer a Mission: Space lite for people who shouldn't or don't want to try the full experience.

Mission: Space simulates a spaceship launch, flight and landing by combining centrifugal and other motions with audio and video effects. There are four separate centrifuge systems in the building and at least one of them would be turned off so that riders experienced rocking motions and the other effects, but not the spinning.

Disney announced the new ride option would be available by "early summer" for people who chose not to ride the more intense version either because they don't want to or because they have health problems that prevent them from doing so.

Disney officials said the change is not being made because of the April 12 death of a German tourist, Hiltrud Blümel, or the death last summer of a 4-year-old boy, Daudi Bamuwamye, or because of numerous other illness complaints.

Instead, Disney is characterizing the change as an exciting new option.

"By offering a second adventure, we hope to broaden the appeal of Mission: Space and enable even more guests to experience the attraction," Al Weiss, president of Walt Disney World Resort, said in a prepared statement.

The ride has drawn 11.7 million people since it opened in the summer of 2003 and is a favorite of many. But it's also the Disney ride that draws the most complaints and serious illnesses, and is the only ride at Disney that includes motion sickness bags. Besides the two deaths, more than 130 riders have sought medical attention, including 10 reported for suffering serious health effects.

When asked if the change was being made because of recent events, Disney spokeswoman Kim Prunty responded, "The answer is no.

"We are doing this for three reasons: to enable even more guests to experience the attraction; to provide an alternative that may be more suited for some guests, such as those who are prone to motion sickness or have other conditions; and to further encourage all guests to carefully consider and heed posted health warnings."

The move is being welcomed by theme park analysts and ride safety proponents.

"It sounds like a reasonable step for a self-regulated park to take," said Kathy Fackler, founder and president of SaferParks, a California-based organization crusading for independent ride safety reviews.

[DannyDisneyFreak]

This is an innovation which is long overdue, but it could (and should) be applied to attractions besides just Mission Space. There are many guests who physically are excluded from attractions such as the Tower of Terror or Space Mountain. But, there are many, many more persons who probably could ride, but who choose not to, due to the "thrill-ride" nature of the experience. A tamer, more sedate ride experience would open these attractions to (virtually) everyone, while preserving the "thrills" Disney seems to think it needs. Indeed, ToT need only (dramatically) slow the descent of the "drop" elevator to create a ride version which can be enjoyed by a wider audience.
I think this a good idea with M:S especially with the recent deaths but it is totally ridiculous to slow down ToT or SM! here is a better idea take the elevator down from the top floor of the CR at the Cali Grill and then take a trip on the monorail with your eyes closed, that is what tamer :snail: versions of ToT and SM would be like. By this logic they should add some G-force to Dumbo :dumbo: for bigger kids who normally would not enjoy the ride.

[DannyDisneyFreak]

Disney officials said the change is not being made because of the April 12 death of a German tourist, Hiltrud Blümel, or the death last summer of a 4-year-old boy, Daudi Bamuwamye, or because of numerous other illness complaints.
Thats what they say but I think its more like: "we better see if guests like a tamer M:S because if any more people croak on this ride we're gonna have to close it otherwise"

[erikthewise]

I thought that a half-chicken* line would be a no-brainer. I guess there are six capsules each holding four so after 24 people have entered the chicken coop from the on-deck circle then the next ride cycle is run more sedately.


Or maybe they could call it a "chicken and shrimp" line so young children could do it too. :rolleyes:

[manning]

Amazing, they come up with a simple fix to satisfy everyone and we have complainers.

[stemikger]

Awesome. I really hope this happens. I would love to try it, but due to high blood pressure I could not. Now for the really big question.

Does anyone know when this will become a reality.

[mjgruber]

Thats what they say but I think its more like: "we better see if guests like a tamer M:S because if any more people croak on this ride we're gonna have to close it otherwise"

This decision ( in my opinion ) came from Legal Headquarters in California. To say it is not connected to the deaths is ummm ridiculous, the ride was open for 3 years and now with 2 weeks after the 2nd death they change it.

I applaud them for the change and for legal reasons they Cannot say it is related to the deaths. Just don't try to feed us mind numbing reasons. :smokin:

[crazy4wdw]

Disney plans gentler Mission: Space
Word of a less-intense version of the thrill ride follows 2 deaths and many complaints.

Scott Powers and Beth Kassab | Sentinel Staff Writers
Posted May 3, 2006

Less than a month after a second person died after riding Mission: Space, Walt Disney World is reworking its hazardous but popular Epcot ride to offer a Mission: Space-lite option for some people.

The thrill ride simulates a spaceship launch, flight and landing with a combination of centrifugal and other motion forces and audio and video "virtual-reality" effects. There are four separate centrifuge systems in the ride building, each with 10 pods that can hold four riders each.

Disney announced Tuesday that it will turn off the centrifuge on at least one system, so that riders who don't want, or should not try, the spinning may still ride.

The new option would be available by early summer.

A company spokeswoman said the change is not being made because of the April 12 death of a German tourist, Hiltrud Blumel, the death last summer of a 4-year-old boy, Daudi Bamuwamye, or numerous other illness complaints.

Instead, Disney is characterizing the nonspinning ride as an exciting new option.

"By offering a second adventure, we hope to broaden the appeal of Mission: Space and enable even more guests to experience the attraction," Al Weiss, president of Walt Disney World Resort, said in a prepared statement.

Weiss was not available to be interviewed Tuesday evening. Nor were Walt Disney World Vice President of Epcot Brad Rex, or Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Chief Safety Officer Greg Hale.

Mission: Space has drawn 11.8 million people since it opened in the summer of 2003 and is a favorite of many.

Kim and R.J. Maurice, a sister and brother from Jacksonville, are among them. After they rode it Tuesday, Kim Maurice, 21, said she would ride it 30 more times if she could.

But Mission: Space also draws the most complaints of serious illnesses among all Disney World rides. And it is the only one that includes motion-sickness bags. Besides the two deaths, more than 130 riders have sought medical attention, including 10 reported with serious health effects, since the ride opened.

When asked whether the change was being made because of recent events, Disney spokeswoman Kim Prunty responded, "The answer is no."

"We are doing this for three reasons," Prunty said. "To enable even more guests to experience the attraction; to provide an alternative that may be more suited for some guests, such as those who are prone to motion sickness or have other conditions; and to further encourage all guests to carefully consider and heed posted health warnings."

The ride is safe as designed for people who heed the health warnings, she said. People with cardiovascular problems including hypertension, or who are prone to motion sickness, are warned away by 13 signs, plus video and audio warnings along the ride's queue.

Since the April 12 death, Mission: Space lines consistently have been far shorter than those at Epcot's two other major rides, Soarin' and Test Track. Tuesday evening, the posted wait time for Mission: Space was five minutes, compared with 40 for Soarin' and 30 for Test Track, a typical spread in recent weeks.

Without the centrifugal force -- which the military and NASA have used for decades to help simulate flight and spaceflight -- the ride would be more like Star Tours at Disney-MGM Studios or Back to the Future at Universal Studios. Both simulate flight experiences with rocking, rising and falling motions and video and audio.

Disney is still working out the operational details, Prunty said.

Other rides offer options. Many roller coasters, for example, allow riders to choose the front car. Typically, the queue splits just before the boarding area.

Prunty said Mission: Space warning signs will make the choices clear.

Many Epcot guests were considering the current warnings Tuesday, and some said they would think about riding the alternative if it were available. Kirk and Cosette Steehler of Erie, Pa., sat out the ride while two of their children rode.

They weren't worried about serious problems but said they didn't want to get sick. Kirk Steehler said he has gotten sick before on simulator rides.

"If it was toned down, I'd probably go on it," Cosette Steehler said.

Theme-park analysts and ride-safety proponents welcomed the change.

"It sounds like a reasonable step for a self-regulated park to take," said Kathy Fackler, founder and president of SaferParks, a California-based organization crusading for independent ride-safety reviews.

But some said they think Disney is reacting to the deaths and illnesses.

"I think it's because of the problems they've had with it," said Steve Baker, president of Baker Leisure Group, an Orlando-based theme-park consulting firm. "So I guess they [Disney officials] have got to, without scuttling the whole ride, try something, and make the liability less, to say, 'We've gone to great lengths to offer you a safe ride. What else are we going to do?' "

Nationally, some rides, notably The Rattler at Fiesta Texas, in San Antonio, and Son of Beast, at Kings Island, in Ohio, were changed after injury complaints.

But Dennis Speigel, president of International Theme Park Services in Cincinnati, said he knows of no park that ever offered a less-intense alternative following complaints.

Speigel said he thought the second option is a "logical extension." He said it should encourage more people with health concerns to take the warnings seriously, because they'll have more choices than just to ride or not to ride.

"I would imagine that if there was a question, and somebody realistically addressed that, they will stop and say, 'Well, maybe I will take the less intense ride,' " he said.

Scott Powers can be reached at spowers@orlandosentinel.com or 407-420-5441. Beth Kassab can be reached at bkassab@orlandosentinel.com or 407-420-5448.

[JMD]

Amazing, they come up with a simple fix to satisfy everyone and we have complainers.


No one is complaining. And it doesn't satisfy everyone, the vast majority of people like it just the way it is now. Considering the intesity of the ride and recent issues on it, I understand if they want to test a milder version of Mission:Space. But changing other thrill rides, as someone suggested, is just absurd.

[All Aboard]

I'm still hearing that there is more to come. The same source that told me (just a few days after the last incident) that this would be coming has also told me that there will be a reduction in the intensity of other three centrifuges.

This current measure reduces Disney's exposure somewhat. Clearly, in the event of another death, Disney's defense is a bit stronger where they can show that they have another option and that the warnings are very clear.

However, another death would be bad on so many levels. And, it's a reasonable assumption that the remaining three centrifuges present the same dangers to people with risk factors.

Sure, while Disney can say "hey, it's thier own damn fault", how will the public perceive that? Right now, I'm believing the news I heard this morning - the rest of the attraction will be toned down in intensity.

You drive off a major few thrill seekers (never has been WDW's bread and butter, and isn't the only means of driving growth and popularity - Soarin' has proven that), but bring in a greater number of guests overall to the attraction. And, you reduce the chances that there is another death. Makes sense to me, and likely makes sense to Disney.

[dbm20th]

From Local 6 website (http://www.local6.com/news/9148771/detail.html)...


Disney To Offer Tamer Version Of 'Mission: Space' Ride

Walt Disney World will offer a tamer version of the attraction thrill ride "Mission: Space" the company said Tuesday, less than three weeks after a woman became ill on the ride and later died.

Beginning this summer, Epcot guests will have two options when it comes to the ride; they can either go on the current attraction or a new version which provides a milder experience, according to the report.

In the new version, the spinning centrifuge will be turned off for guests who are prone to motion sickness or have other conditions.

"By offering a second adventure, we hope to broaden the appeal of "Mission: Space" and enable even more guests to experience the attraction," said Al Weiss, president of Walt Disney World Resort.

Signs posted in the queue area of "Mission: Space" will outline the difference between the two adventures and provide health advisories appropriate for each experience.

"Providing a choice between two ride options will help to further encourage all Guests to carefully consider posted health advisories when making their decision," Weiss said.

Hiltrud Bluemel, 49, died April 12, one day after she went on the ride.

A preliminary report from the Orange County Medical Examiner's Office showed Bluemel died from bleeding of the brain. She also suffered from severe, long standing high blood pressure, according to the medical examiner's office.

Disney officials said the decision to offer a watered down version of Mission Space had nothing to do with Bluemel's death.

A spokeswoman declined to specify exactly how long the company has been working on the alternative version.

Also, last year, a 4-year-old boy died after riding "Mission: Space."

An autopsy determined Daudi Bamuwamye, of Sellersville, Pa., died of an irregular heartbeat linked to a natural causes. The boy had an abnormal thickening of the heart muscle that can throw heart contractions out of coordination.

People with the condition are at risk for sudden death throughout their lives, especially in physically or emotionally stressful situations, a medical examiner said.

Theme park consultants said Disney likely felt the pressure to make some changes to the ride after the two deaths.

"I think they felt they were kind of in the position where they've got to do something. All the warnings in the world have not prevented the tragedies," said Steve Baker, president of Baker Leisure Group Inc. "They've got to do more to warn. But the unfortunate thing is the people who had a problem didn't know they had a problem. So I don't know how you stop that."

Jerry Aldrich, president of Orlando-based Amusement Industry Consulting and a former Disney employee, said the move could widen the demographic drawn to the ride.

"I would imagine there's just a lot of people that may be hesitant to ride it because of all the warnings, or maybe they had some conditions which meant they shouldn't ride."

"Mission: Space" opened in August 2003. Since that time, 11.8 million rides have been given on the attraction.

The $100 million Epcot attraction simulates a mock spaceflight to Mars and spins riders in a centrifuge that subjects them to twice the normal force of gravity.

The alternative version is slated to start this summer and will run alongside the original ride.

[flatline]

I'm still hearing that there is more to come. The same source that told me (just a few days after the last incident) that this would be coming has also told me that there will be a reduction in the intensity of other three centrifuges.

This current measure reduces Disney's exposure somewhat. Clearly, in the event of another death, Disney's defense is a bit stronger where they can show that they have another option and that the warnings are very clear.

However, another death would be bad on so many levels. And, it's a reasonable assumption that the remaining three centrifuges present the same dangers to people with risk factors.

Sure, while Disney can say "hey, it's thier own damn fault", how will the public perceive that? Right now, I'm believing the news I heard this morning - the rest of the attraction will be toned down in intensity.

You drive off a major few thrill seekers (never has been WDW's bread and butter, and isn't the only means of driving growth and popularity - Soarin' has proven that), but bring in a greater number of guests overall to the attraction. And, you reduce the chances that there is another death. Makes sense to me, and likely makes sense to Disney.


fantastic, they're toning down a few 2 G pulls as well now. just rename it Mission: Sit and Watch the Movie.

[DrTomorrow]

No one is complaining. And it doesn't satisfy everyone, the vast majority of people like it just the way it is now. [...] Always wanted to meet the spokesperson for "the vast majority" :rotfl2:

More on point, this is a sensible idea. With four centerfuges, they can gauge the demand for M:S-L (Mission:Space - Lite) and spin up / spin down as needed. This addresses not only the PR issues of guests "going to see Walt" on attractions, but opens up a popular attraction to more guests. And isn't a big part of the whole Disney concept is that Walt wanted rides that the whole family could go on?

And to the person who summed up M:S-L as sitting, watching and pushing buttons - you underestimate the entire ride experience. The M:S pre-ride is pretty intense and immersive, and the capsule is pretty claustrophobic; factor in the vibrations and rocking and it's still going to appeal to a lot of folks.

IMHO - YMMV - Be well!

[flatline]

And to the person who summed up M:S-L as sitting, watching and pushing buttons - you underestimate the entire ride experience. The M:S pre-ride is pretty intense and immersive, and the capsule is pretty claustrophobic; factor in the vibrations and rocking and it's still going to appeal to a lot of folks.

IMHO - YMMV - Be well!

the pre-board is watching Gary Sinese reading off of cue cards, it's as immersive as watching paint dry. if there's a MS lite version, that's fine, queue up for it. but to tone down the other capsules to stave off a one in 6 million chance of death, that's wrong.

[All Aboard]

but to tone down the other capsules to stave off a one in 6 million chance of death, that's wrong.

Let's assume for a moment that your probability is correct. I have no idea, of course, whether it is. But, for craps and giggles, let's say it is.

Do you think that Disney (and Hewlett Packard, for that matter) is either interested or willing to take that risk? If that translates into a death a year, do you think Disney can stomach that? Knowing, of course, that if it happens, that the news stories will list each and every death.

I don't believe anyone can possibly predict what the long range prospects for deaths on the attraction are. But, Disney is already in a hole on this. They can't afford to drop any deeper. The next one will be huge.

[Tink's Tormentor]

Has anyone even considered that this may have been HPs decision and not Disney's??? Remember, HP is sponsering the attraction and could pull the funding at any time, especially with the recent death and numerous reports proving M:S is the one attraction in WDW that get's more people sick...

Oh, and as for the person who said the vast majority loves M:S the way it is now, i disagree... I would say the vast majority does not like M:S the way it is now.. Average the numbers... 6 million a year compared to 16 million visitors a year to Epcot... not even half the visitors go on M:S.. so, the vast majority does not like M:S and refuses to ride....

[erikthewise]

Oh, and as for the person who said the vast majority loves M:S the way it is now, i disagree... I would say the vast majority does not like M:S the way it is now.. Average the numbers... 6 million a year compared to 16 million visitors a year to Epcot... not even half the visitors go on M:S.. so, the vast majority does not like M:S and refuses to ride....

Studies show that 39% of all statistics are made up. :teeth: (Speaking of which, where did you find that figure of 16 million visitors a year to Epcot?)
So why not have the vast majority of people agree with me? It costs nothing.

On at least half of my 20 or so visits to Magic Kingdom I have not ridden Space Mountain. Not one of those times did I "refuse to ride"; I enjoy the ride quite a bit. The data that 6M people out 10M visitors ride M:S proves nothing.

[DannyDisneyFreak]

DrTomorrow: "going to see Walt" I laughed my tail off when I read that. Maybe they could use that to promote the ride!

For the complainers, and yes you are complaining, would you rather they shut it down for good? And the tamed down version would hardly be "Mission: Sit and Watch the Movie" like a previous poster mentioned it would be like Star Tours or Body Wars (R.I.P.) in fact even better because of the smaller capsule you are riding in.

I aslo would like to mention that I don't think M:S is the most intense ride in WDW, in about a year when DQ closes we will be losing what I think is the most intense ride which I think is the Virtural Space Mountain. I belive it operates on a similar principal that M:S rides on but it also filps upside down forward, backward and side ways. I was sick as a dog when I got off it. I found out after that you could ride it with the montion turned off.

[Tink's Tormentor]

LoL. I like that Erik...

I do believe I saw that number on a coaster website that had the attendance figures of U.S. theme parks... MK was first and Epcot was 2nd.. Maybe it was 14 million.... I do not rememebr the exact number... I may be wrong... Maybe it wasn't 16 million... But, saying the vast majority love M:S is wrong to say...

[erikthewise]

LoL. I like that Erik...

I do believe I saw that number on a coaster website that had the attendance figures of U.S. theme parks... MK was first and Epcot was 2nd.. Maybe it was 14 million.... I do not rememebr the exact number... I may be wrong... Maybe it wasn't 16 million... But, saying the vast majority love M:S is wrong to say...

Agreed. The truth is we don't have such statistics; clearly there are a lot of people in both categories.

As far as theme park attendance stats go, Disney doesn't release figures, but the estimates at http://www.themeparkinsider.com/flume/200512/2/ seem to be widely accepted.

[freediverdude]

I don't mind them turning one of the centrifuges into a toned down version of the ride, so practically anybody could experience it- that sounds like a smart idea. But I don't agree with slowing down the other centrifuges as well. It's going to turn off the people who like the current ride, plus that version may actually make more people sick to their stomach, as the spinning would be more noticeable when it's slower. Not a good idea.

[DancingBear]

If you don't have any visual reference, I don't think you'd notice the spinning any more by going more slowly.

[JMD]

And isn't a big part of the whole Disney concept is that Walt wanted rides that the whole family could go on?



Why can't the whole family go on M:S? Every time I've been on the ride, I'm surrounded by families while I wait in line.

[JMD]

not even half the visitors go on M:S.. so, the vast majority does not like M:S and refuses to ride....


Have you ever waited in line for MS? Or tried to get a fast pass? The line for MS is typically one of the longest in the park. During peak season, they will run out of Fast Passes before any other ride. In fact, look at all the rides that have the some longest wait times at each park. Test Track, MS, RnRC, TOT, Space Mountain.......hmmmm......and the vast majority doesn't like thrill rides?

[Tink's Tormentor]

Have you ever waited in line for MS? Or tried to get a fast pass? The line for MS is typically one of the longest in the park. During peak season, they will run out of Fast Passes before any other ride. In fact, look at all the rides that have the some longest wait times at each park. Test Track, MS, RnRC, TOT, Space Mountain.......hmmmm......and the vast majority doesn't like thrill rides?

Yea.. i did.. 5 minutes.. no wait... never ever a wait for M:S... in fact, every time I go, TT is always over 90 min and Soarin is 100 plus.. but MS, its a walk on to maybe 5 minute wait.... So, how is it one of the longest in the park?

And you twist words... the person said the vast majority loves MS the way it is.. not the vast majority loves thrill rides... I only said the vast majorty does not love MS the way it is... I answered what was spoken.. if the person had said the vast majority loves thrill rides, even though that is debatable, i wouldn't have disagreed much...

[Tink's Tormentor]

Agreed. The truth is we don't have such statistics; clearly there are a lot of people in both categories.

As far as theme park attendance stats go, Disney doesn't release figures, but the estimates at http://www.themeparkinsider.com/flume/200512/2/ seem to be widely accepted.

There was another one I was looking at... not that one.... But, maybe I did get a little confused about the numbers.. Yes MK was 16 million... After seeing that site, it reminded me.... But, the one I saw had Epcot's numbers higher..

of course, I am beating myself here looking for that stinking site and now i cannot find it....

[JMD]

Yea.. i did.. 5 minutes.. no wait... never ever a wait for M:S... in fact, every time I go, TT is always over 90 min and Soarin is 100 plus.. but MS, its a walk on to maybe 5 minute wait.... So, how is it one of the longest in the park?

And you twist words... the person said the vast majority loves MS the way it is.. not the vast majority loves thrill rides... I only said the vast majorty does not love MS the way it is... I answered what was spoken.. if the person had said the vast majority loves thrill rides, even though that is debatable, i wouldn't have disagreed much...

If you only waited 5 minutes then you must be very lucky. Everytime I've been there it was the longest wait. I'm going back in two weeks so I hope you're right.

I'm not twisting words, your not reading the whole thread. You commented on a response I made to another poster. I can understand why Disney would test a tamer version of M:S, I've said that already. But someone mentioned that they should do it to other thrill rides so that they would appeal to a wider audience. Thats what I disagree with. Disney doesn't need a slow or tamer version for every ride in the park. Considering the recent issue with M:S, thats obviously an exception.

[Kae]

I was just wondering if MS had the toned down verision offered if it would have made the outcome (of the 2 that died) any different? I know my thought, but was wondering about other peoples?

Kae

[All Aboard]

Have you ever waited in line for MS? Or tried to get a fast pass? The line for MS is typically one of the longest in the park. During peak season, they will run out of Fast Passes before any other ride.

JMD, you're missing on several cylindars here. On most days, M:S has the third or fourth longest line at Epcot. Soarin' is always longest, followed by Test Track and then most often by Living with the Land.

Common mid-day wait times during this time of the year are:

Soarin' 60-90 minutes
Test Track 30-45 minutes
Living with the Land 20-30 minutes
Mission:Space 20-30 minutes

Often, even when 20 minutes is posted for Mission:Space, the attraction is actually a near walk-on. And, they have the ability to control the capacity of the attraction by shutting down centrifuges, which they often due - running only two or three. The attraction is not nearly as popular as initially expected.

At Test Track, a car leaves every 12 seconds. It runs at full capacity (unless it breaks down) all day long.

[JMD]

JMD, you're missing on several cylindars here. On most days, M:S has the third or fourth longest line at Epcot. Soarin' is always longest, followed by Test Track and then most often by Living with the Land.

Common mid-day wait times during this time of the year are:

Soarin' 60-90 minutes
Test Track 30-45 minutes
Living with the Land 20-30 minutes
Mission:Space 20-30 minutes

Often, even when 20 minutes is posted for Mission:Space, the attraction is actually a near walk-on. And, they have the ability to control the capacity of the attraction by shutting down centrifuges, which they often due - running only two or three. The attraction is not nearly as popular as initially expected.

At Test Track, a car leaves every 12 seconds. It runs at full capacity (unless it breaks down) all day long.

As I just posted, this was not my experience last time I was there. Its quite possible that things have changed quite a bit since the last time I went. Considering that I'm going in two weeks, I hope your right.

[DukeStreetKing]

As I just posted, this was not my experience last time I was there. Its quite possible that things have changed quite a bit since the last time I went. Considering that I'm going in two weeks, I hope your right.

I just went this past weekend. Mission:Space was a walk on all day.

[Tink's Tormentor]

If you only waited 5 minutes then you must be very lucky. Everytime I've been there it was the longest wait. I'm going back in two weeks so I hope you're right.

I'm not twisting words, your not reading the whole thread. You commented on a response I made to another poster. I can understand why Disney would test a tamer version of M:S, I've said that already. But someone mentioned that they should do it to other thrill rides so that they would appeal to a wider audience. Thats what I disagree with. Disney doesn't need a slow or tamer version for every ride in the park. Considering the recent issue with M:S, thats obviously an exception.

JMD when was the last time u were there?????

[doubletrouble_vb]

The problem with M:S is that your incentive to ride it on a second trip isn't all that great. I rode it twice on my trip that included a chance to but only because my seatmate on the first ride were German and didn't understand they were supposed to do anything...either that or they wanted to see what happened if you didn't press any buttons. I took the second ride because of the first and because my friend was in a conference when I went through the first time. The next trip was right after poor Daudi ...this time with friends who hadn't been to the World in years. So we rode. I won't be riding again unless some changes are made...not just because of the intensity of experience but because there isn't much to the ride for repeat riders.

They need to think along the lines of the Tower of Terror and find a way to vary the ride experience in a way that is noticeable and that would be appreciated.

[flatline]

it was on our local news today about the intended changes, no real details or dates, though. typical 'in the wake of recent deaths' kind of reporting. if they are going to ramp down the overall experience, there's nothing that can be done about it. 2 deaths out of 12 million bodies doesn't seem justifiable, but the PR department must be freaking out.

BTW, we were over for the Flower and Garden Festival last weekend and it was a walk-on while we were there as well.

[All Aboard]

2 deaths out of 12 million bodies doesn't seem justifiable.

After Daudi's death, I was saying virtually the same thing. "Freak occurance", "one in a billion", etc. But now, after two, I've significantly changed my position.

Think about it, if this proves to be the probability, Disney could be facing a death on this attraction every 12-18 months. That's scary as hell.

I'm not suggesting that it definitely is the long-run probability, but what I am suggesting is that Disney cannot take the risk of finding out the hard way that it is.

From where I sit, Disney has absolutely no choice in this matter. They tone it down and reduce the risk of fatality.

[Cool-Beans]

it was on our local news today about the intended changes, no real details or dates, though. typical 'in the wake of recent deaths' kind of reporting. if they are going to ramp down the overall experience, there's nothing that can be done about it. 2 deaths out of 12 million bodies doesn't seem justifiable, but the PR department must be freaking out.

BTW, we were over for the Flower and Garden Festival last weekend and it was a walk-on while we were there as well.How many dead bodies do you need?;) :goodvibes Just kidding. But I have a point. :)

MS threw me for a loop. I can ride everything in the world. The spinning ride that throws you up against the wall, then the floor drops out. Roller coasters where you stand up and zoom toward the ground face-first. I'd even ride the Hulk again if it didn't hurt my teeth.

But I sat in my seat at MS fighting to stay conscious. I was having MUCHO trouble breathing (had to concentrate and force myself to breathe), and worried that if I passed out I wouldn't breathe and then my kids would hate Disney because I died there. Didn't want that, so began praying to let me die elsewhere.

Thought it was just me, then they told me "no," and explained how the ride worked while I was lying on a bench (embarrassed, but woozy.)

Then others on the internet said it made them funky, too.

Then one kid dies.

Then another person dies.

I think this ride has something to it that affects some people harshly and not others. And after 2 dead people, I think it might be affecting some a little too harshly. Since there isn't any way to tell if it will affect people or not, I'd be glad if they could fix whatever it is.

And I wasn't scared going on it. It wasn't in my head, didn't psych myself out. And I followed all the rules. Still...:faint:

(But the ride itself without the sensation would be a huge bore.)

Just my $.02.

[annie1995]

I would really like to see this happen! We won't ride for various reasons, but this toned down version would be great! :bounce: :bounce: :bounce:

[flatline]

How many dead bodies do you need?;) :goodvibes Just kidding. But I have a point. :)

MS threw me for a loop. I can ride everything in the world. The spinning ride that throws you up against the wall, then the floor drops out. Roller coasters where you stand up and zoom toward the ground face-first. I'd even ride the Hulk again if it didn't hurt my teeth.

But I sat in my seat at MS fighting to stay conscious. I was having MUCHO trouble breathing (had to concentrate and force myself to breathe), and worried that if I passed out I wouldn't breathe and then my kids would hate Disney because I died there. Didn't want that, so began praying to let me die elsewhere.

Thought it was just me, then they told me "no," and explained how the ride worked while I was lying on a bench (embarrassed, but woozy.)

Then others on the internet said it made them funky, too.

Then one kid dies.

Then another person dies.

I think this ride has something to it that affects some people harshly and not others. And after 2 dead people, I think it might be affecting some a little too harshly. Since there isn't any way to tell if it will affect people or not, I'd be glad if they could fix whatever it is.

And I wasn't scared going on it. It wasn't in my head, didn't psych myself out. And I followed all the rules. Still...:faint:

(But the ride itself without the sensation would be a huge bore.)

Just my $.02.


but you didn't die? ;) well, you can go on the zero G version. my wife and I were talking about this at dinner last night, and she took an even more hard line view than me. essentially, tough (crap) - somethings going to kill you. the trip from MCO to WDW is a lot more dangerous than M:S.

a zero G option I support, but also toning down the original I'm against. but hey, I didn't want to lose Alien Encounter either, and Al Weiss isn't taking my phone calls.

[MouseWorshipin]

Hey! MS not a bad ride!

[Cool-Beans]

but you didn't die? No, I didn't die. Not exactly a ringing endorsement, "It didn't kill me."

Maybe that could be their next slogan. Instead of "We choose to go," they could say, "We probably won't die!"

Last time we were there, the wait for Soarin' was 110 minutes, the wait for TT was 60, and the wait for MS was 5 minutes. But it wasn't summer.

[flatline]

No, I didn't die. Not exactly a ringing endorsement, "It didn't kill me."

Maybe that could be their next slogan. Instead of "We choose to go," they could say, "We probably won't die!"


actually, that's a great tagline for a thrill ride. it's better than, "Now with 50% Less Fun !!!" (please visit the gift shop after exiting)

[Cool-Beans]

actually, that's a great tagline for a thrill ride. it's better than, "Now with 50% Less Fun !!!" (please visit the gift shop after exiting)Whatever! I'm not getting back on. :hippie:

But I don't see the purpose to riding without the "experience," either. Yawn.

And don't get me started on the cheesy gift-shop exits. :crazy:

[DancingBear]

but you didn't die? ;) well, you can go on the zero G version. my wife and I were talking about this at dinner last night, and she took an even more hard line view than me. essentially, tough (crap) - somethings going to kill you.So you're okay with the changes to the Lights Motors Action show--you know, now that guests will be driving the vehicles?

[ktulu]

I posted this on another thread, but since people are reading this one ;)

News from WDW:

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. (May 2, 2006) -- By the beginning of summer, Epcot guests will have two options when it comes to riding Mission: SPACE -- the original thrill attraction and a new version for those who prefer a milder ride experience.

The new version, which is created by turning off the spinning centrifuge, may be more suited for some guests, such as those who are prone to motion sickness or have other conditions. Both versions will offer an exciting astronaut training experience through a dramatic story that invites guests to explore a new world.

"By offering a second adventure, we hope to broaden the appeal of Mission: SPACE and enable even more guests to experience the attraction," said Al Weiss, president of Walt Disney World Resort.

Signs posted in the queue area of Mission: SPACE will outline the difference between the two adventures and provide health advisories appropriate for each experience.

"Providing a choice between two ride options will help to further encourage all guests to carefully consider posted health advisories when making their decision," added Weiss.

Mission: SPACE opened in August 2003. Since that time, 11.8 million rides have been given on the attraction, which simulates the launch, approach and landing of a futuristic spacecraft on Mars. The attraction is made up of four separate ride systems, each with its own centrifuge and programmable simulators.

[patsal]

I don't get the negative posts? I just dont' see how offering an option can be a bad thing? I think it is never a bad thing when people can make a choice between what they feel like--it is better than excluding people who are just unsure fi they can handle it after they read the warnings. No one is taking your "thrill ride" away just allowing non-thrill riders to enjoy an experience as well. :confused3

[FigNewton]

I don't get the negative posts? I just dont' see how offering an option can be a bad thing? I think it is never a bad thing when people can make a choice between what they feel like--it is better than excluding people who are just unsure fi they can handle it after they read the warnings. No one is taking your "thrill ride" away just allowing non-thrill riders to enjoy an experience as well. :confused3

Heh, that's ironic. You don't get the negative posts... and yet the "negative" posters don't get the point of even riding a Mission:Space without the G-Forces.

Love it.

[MouseWorshipin]

I don't get the negative posts? I just dont' see how offering an option can be a bad thing? I think it is never a bad thing when people can make a choice between what they feel like--it is better than excluding people who are just unsure fi they can handle it after they read the warnings. No one is taking your "thrill ride" away just allowing non-thrill riders to enjoy an experience as well. :confused3I think they just mean that there isn't any point to riding it without the sensation. The sensation IS the ride. Without it, there is no purpose to going on. Nothing else happens, except watching a cheesy video on a small screen.

[Firebug]

Some should take sometime to get facts. The first death was due to the person having a congenital medical defect and in reality could have died on the monorail just as easily. That does not make for good sensational news. In other words, doesn’t make a corporation look bad so it is not going to sell newspapers or television ratings. It is way too early for the cause of the second death to have been determined and made public. With that being said, Disney, of course, is worried about public perception. Even in this thread, I did not see even one person suggest that these deaths could have had other medical reasons other then riding the ride. Of course not, because by time that is determined, the public’s short attention span has moved onto something else. So this means Disney has to deal with the perception that the ride does or could harm people regardless if it is true or not. That is world we live in now and sometimes it is very sad.

FB

[DukeStreetKing]

Even in this thread, I did not see even one person suggest that these deaths could have had other medical reasons other then riding the ride.
FB

Only because there have been numerous threads in the past with that debate.

[flatline]

So you're okay with the changes to the Lights Motors Action show--you know, now that guests will be driving the vehicles?

I especially like the changes to Spaceship Earth where the exterior is now a giant climbing wall with three degrees of difficulty.

[DancingBear]

Some should take sometime to get facts. The first death was due to the person having a congenital medical defect and in reality could have died on the monorail just as easily. That does not make for good sensational news. In other words, doesn’t make a corporation look bad so it is not going to sell newspapers or television ratings. It is way too early for the cause of the second death to have been determined and made public. With that being said, Disney, of course, is worried about public perception. Even in this thread, I did not see even one person suggest that these deaths could have had other medical reasons other then riding the ride. Of course not, because by time that is determined, the public’s short attention span has moved onto something else. So this means Disney has to deal with the perception that the ride does or could harm people regardless if it is true or not. That is world we live in now and sometimes it is very sad.

FBWe know the facts. Daudi died due to a congenital heart condition. But his risk was not the same on M:S as it would have been on the monorail.:

"People with this condition are at risk for sudden death throughout their life due to abnormal electrical heart rhythms," the medical examiner's office said. "This risk could be increased under physical or emotional stressful situations."Perhaps it would have been the same on other thrill rides in the park; nobody really knows. But there's a legitimate question about whether this particular thrill ride subjects folks to different stresses than others. And there may be a particular issue about whether the nature of the M:S ride, compared to rollercoasters or Tower of Terror, leads to more folks with hidden medical conditions to ride.

[dkostel]

Does the capsule spin on the large wheel, on its own axis, and also have an up and down bumping motion? If so which are they stopping (i'm assuming it is the spinning of the large wheel?)
thanks

[HarambeGuy]

Go to a local park, and put four seats on the outer edge of a merry-go-round, facing inward. Spin it really fast. That's what it's like. There is no up/down motion. The spinning of the merry-go-round is what they're eliminating for guests who choose to experience the low-impact version of the ride.

[DancingBear]

I thought the seats faced forward motion like a pilot training centrifuge, not around the edge like the Gravitron. And certainly there is tilting and some bumping effects, like the other simulator rides.

[HarambeGuy]

If that's true (and I'm going on memory here so I'm not going to argue about it) then how do they load two pods side by side?

http://i69.photobucket.com/albums/i44/DV4two/BoardMissionSpace.jpg

[Another Voice]

Each cabin is suspended from an arm that reaches out from the spinner’s central hub. When you sit down, you’re facing inwards at the same hub. As the centrifuge starts, you’re pushed back into seat giving the illusion of acceleration. It’s nothing but good old fashion centripetal force, the kind that Mr. Science demonstrated by swinging a bucket of water around fast enough so that none of it poured out.

The cabin is mounted so that it can pitch “up and down” much like a regular simulator. This effect, combined with the videos, produces all the other sensations of the ride. If you’ve seen them, ‘Mission: Space’ is really the capsule used for ‘Cyber Space Mountain’ mounted on a centrifuge (and they were even made by the same people if I recall correctly).

As I understand things, the “mild” version of ‘M:S’ would not use the main centrifuge that produces the “launch acceleration” and “moon slingshot” sensations. But the cabin would still tilt and roll to produce the “flying” and “jolting” sensations. These would be probably be less than ‘Star Tours’ simply because the cabins lack the same range of movement.

The company that created and built ‘Mission: Space’ for Disney (before Disney cancelled their contract) has an animatic that shows the basic ride system at http://www.therideworks.com/gallery.php . Click the link under the “The MAC Movie” title on the right side of the screen. Please note, this movie shows the pods face outward for loading and unloading then “flip over” so you face the center of the spinner. I assume this is the “high budget” version of the system that Disney did not go for.

[manning]

What was the name of that ride at Riverview park that spun you around in a cylinder pinning you to the wall and then the floor dropped away. That's Mission to mars in another version. Wonder how many g's that pushed?