Much has been written about Spaceship Earth in Epcot and how it depicts a timeline from prehistoric man up to the present day. The ride has always been enjoyable but, for us, the one disappointing aspect is that the main features are all on the way up and the return journey to the base of the giant dome was rather empty and flat.
However, since Siemens took over sponsorship in 2007 a number of changes have been made which, in our opinion, serves to enhance the overall experience.
To begin with your photograph is taken almost immediately you board the two-seater carriage, known to Disney cast members as an Onmimover but more about that later.
Then there have been a few minor tweaks to the ride scenes with some changes to costumes, props, lighting and narration which, incidentally, you may recognize as the voice of Dame Judi Dench. There is also a new Greek classroom set and an update on personal computers.
Before commencing the downward spiral, the remainder of the ride showcases a depiction of Earth from space which we think is intended to highlight man’s overall achievements from the across the centuries. . . but we could be wrong!
Now, remember earlier we mentioned that your photograph was taken at the beginning of the ride, well the interactive screen in your carriage will burst into life and request you answer a few multiple choice technology questions as well as asking where in the world is home.
Within a few moments your future lifestyle is being played out by animated characters with your head on their shoulders. This is very amusing and helps pass the time on the return journey to the base of the dome.
Upon exiting the ride guests are directed into ' Project Tomorrow: Inventing the World of Tomorrow. ' where your face will be projected on a large world map for a couple of minutes before jetting across the planet to your country of residence and finally disappearing.
This area features a variety of interactive games and activities that focus on Siemens technology.
They feature a number of hand-eye coordination tests to examine your speed of reflex and physical anatomy games where different body parts need to be correctly positioned to make the skeleton come to life.
This is great fun for all the family and a brilliant way to end your visit to Spaceship Earth.
Please see my other article entitled ‘Spaceship Earth – the Outward Journey’ if you wish to experience the first half of this ride.
However, since Siemens took over sponsorship in 2007 a number of changes have been made which, in our opinion, serves to enhance the overall experience.
To begin with your photograph is taken almost immediately you board the two-seater carriage, known to Disney cast members as an Onmimover but more about that later.
Then there have been a few minor tweaks to the ride scenes with some changes to costumes, props, lighting and narration which, incidentally, you may recognize as the voice of Dame Judi Dench. There is also a new Greek classroom set and an update on personal computers.
Before commencing the downward spiral, the remainder of the ride showcases a depiction of Earth from space which we think is intended to highlight man’s overall achievements from the across the centuries. . . but we could be wrong!
Now, remember earlier we mentioned that your photograph was taken at the beginning of the ride, well the interactive screen in your carriage will burst into life and request you answer a few multiple choice technology questions as well as asking where in the world is home.
Within a few moments your future lifestyle is being played out by animated characters with your head on their shoulders. This is very amusing and helps pass the time on the return journey to the base of the dome.
Upon exiting the ride guests are directed into ' Project Tomorrow: Inventing the World of Tomorrow. ' where your face will be projected on a large world map for a couple of minutes before jetting across the planet to your country of residence and finally disappearing.
This area features a variety of interactive games and activities that focus on Siemens technology.
They feature a number of hand-eye coordination tests to examine your speed of reflex and physical anatomy games where different body parts need to be correctly positioned to make the skeleton come to life.
This is great fun for all the family and a brilliant way to end your visit to Spaceship Earth.
Please see my other article entitled ‘Spaceship Earth – the Outward Journey’ if you wish to experience the first half of this ride.