Test Track Reimagined: Potential Projection Dome and More!

Hey Disney Vacationers, hold on to your Mickey ears! There’s a buzz around EPCOT’s Test Track, and it’s all about a possible new addition—a project dome! Rumors are swirling, thanks to a recent Notice of Commencement permit filed by Walt Disney Imagineering. Let’s dive into what we know and what we can speculate about Test Track reimagined.

The Permit That Started It All

Walt Disney Imagineering has tapped Pennsylvania-based Spitz, Inc. for work on the Test Track reimagining project at EPCOT. The permit lists “install set elements” as the scope of work, but Disney, in classic fashion, keeps the juicy details under wraps. So, what makes this permit so intriguing? Spitz, Inc. has a history of crafting impressive projection domes and other set elements, making them an exciting partner for this project.

Who is Spitz, Inc.?

Founded by legendary planetarium educator Armand Spitz in 1947, Spitz, Inc. began as a provider of affordable optical planetarium projectors for schools and small educational institutions. Over the years, they’ve grown into the world’s leading supplier of planetariums and domes. Their clientele includes some of the most discriminating customers like Disney, Universal Studios, Volkswagen, Griffith Observatory, and Zeiss.

Spitz, Inc.’s Disney Connection

While Spitz, Inc. doesn’t frequently work with Disney, they played a significant role in the Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind attraction queue at EPCOT. This connection has fans excited about what they could bring to Test Track. For Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, there’s one major projection dome within the pre-show. It’s speculated that Spitz worked on this dome and potentially others, but it’s not immediately clear if their work extended beyond this one projection dome.

Outside Disney: Spitz’s Other Projects

Spitz, Inc. isn’t limited to Disney projects. They’ve also contributed to other theme park attractions in the Orlando area. A notable example is SeaWorld’s Turtle Trek 3D attraction, which opened in April 2012. Though Turtle Trek welcomed its last guests in March 2020, it was a significant project showcasing Spitz’s expertise. The attraction was replaced by the SeaWorld Rescue Center.

What Could This Mean for Test Track?

The big question on everyone’s mind is: What will Spitz, Inc. be doing for the Test Track reimagining? The scope of their work is still unknown. It could involve another projection dome for the queue portion of the attraction or a dome within the ride itself to create realistic night scenes and other environmental effects. Imagine cruising through a futuristic landscape with the sky above changing in real-time—it’s the kind of magic us Disney fans dream about!

Looking Ahead: What’s Next?

Disney has been tight-lipped about the specifics, but all eyes are on the upcoming D23 event. Fans are hoping Disney will share more pieces of concept art and details about the reimagined Test Track. Will we get a sneak peek at the potential projection dome? Fingers crossed!

The reimagined Test Track is shaping up to be an exciting project, especially with Spitz, Inc. involved. Whether it’s a new project dome or other innovative elements, Disney never fails to amaze. Stay tuned, Disney enthusiasts, because the future of Test Track looks bright and full of possibilities!

Looking To Book Your Dream Disney Vacation?

Meet the Author: Nate Bishop

I’m a die-hard Disney fan with 38 years of visits under my belt, having stepped into Disney World 120+ times. Proud to be a Disney Annual Passholder, a Vacation Club member since ’92, a Castaway Club Member, and a runDisney enthusiast. Oh, and I’ve graduated from the Disney College of Knowledge. Need Disney insights or planning tips? I’m your guy!