Mission: Spaced

Although it doesn't open to the public until August 15¹, I've had the chance to ride the new Mission: Space at Epcot twice in the past two days, through the wonder of Cast Previews. Last night, it was myself, Ben, Jorge, Bj, and Daniel². Today, Daniel, myself, and co-worker Zahra.

Suffice it to say, M:S is one intense ride. Designed to simulate an actual space-bound launch, the ride combines centrifuge and simulator technology. One can not heed the "do not turn your head during the ride" safety warning seriously enough. While I truly enjoy the ride, there can be mild disorientation later. Daniel discovered, once back at work, that quickly moving around on one's desk chair can produce vertigo after this ride. (By the way, actor Gary Sinise — star of Apollo 13 and Disney's own space flick, Mission to Mars — is featured as your safety-video host.) I'll go again, no question, but it doesn't top Tower of Terror as my favorite WDW ride for pure thrill.

¹ The General Public has already been allowed to ride, though, in a "pre-Soft Opening" way. They keep randomly opening in the evenings, apparently. "Soft Opening" used to mean "unannounced," but they've announced that it begins August 15... all so the Grand Opening can happen during a press event in October. Whatever.

² Maybe it's a sign of the Apocalypse, that Daniel actually has blogged more recently (as of this writing) than Bj?