Space Mountain

This picture of Space Mountain's loading platform was taken in 2001.  From the coaster's opening in 1983 until 2007, trains had large sections painted with glow-in-the-dark paint.  These areas are the nearly white shapes on the sides and on the front of the cars.  During the ride, which occurs in nearly total darkness, the other trains could be seen zipping around the track due to these areas of glowing paint.

When the ride was refurbished in 2007, the glowing paint was eliminated.  At the same time, the loading and unloading area was upgraded.  The simple metal pipes seen in this picture were replaced by lighted gates that open only when passengers are allowed to enter the trains.

©2022 Joel A. Rogers.