An Audio-Animatronics
Steve works on a computer
prototype on Spaceship
Earth
by home4us123

Go inside the huge geodesic sphere that towers above Epcot for a look at the development of communication technologies from cave paintings through the space age. Four-seat “time machine” vehicles take you up into the huge sphere past dozens of Audio-Animatronics reenacting milestones in communication. A renovation in 2007 added new ride scenes, changes to existing scenes, an interactive touchscreen in the “time machine” vehicle, and narration by actress Dame Judi Dench. At the end of the ride, you’ll exit into a post-show exhibit, Project Tomorrow, sponsored by Siemens, where you can do things such as “build a body” in 3-D, experience a driving simulation game, and check out an illuminated globe with a collage of futuristic images. Adults should accompany and sit beside children. We suggest you visit at park opening or in the evening for shorter waits. Outdoor queue is mostly covered. Guests must transfer from wheelchair. Alex’s ToddlerTip: A Allie’s KidTip: “You’ll love all the lights. And it’s good for learning.” Allie’s TeenTip: “Really boring.”

This high-tech, hands-on trade exhibit offers activities for all ages. The Colortopia exhibit presented by Glidden, which explores color. The new SpectacuLAB features experiments that involve STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) principles and how they apply to modern technology. Note that the Sum of All Thrills thrill ride designer and the StormStruck exhibit closed in September 2016. Short queues in some exhibits. Wheelchair accessible. 

Join Ellen DeGeneres for a humorous crash course in energy, the stuff that powers our world. Widescreen films, thunderous sound effects, and gigantic Audio-Animatronics dinosaurs help tell the tale. Ellen’s cast includes Bill Nye the Science Guy, Jamie Lee Curtis, and Alex Trebek. Shows start every 17 minutes. The queue moves quickly once the show begins. Effects may be too intense for small kids and some adults. No flash photo or video lights. Note that this attraction is closing August 13, 2017 to make way for a new Guardians of the Galaxy-inspired attraction, which will open in time for the 50th anniversary in 2021.

Disney announced that a new Guardians of the Galaxy-inspired ride will be built in the spot vacated by Universe of Energy when it closes on August 13, 2017. The new ride is expected to show the excitement and adventure offered by space travel. We do not yet have more details, other than that this will be a different experience from "Guardians of the Galaxy - Mission: Breakout!" at Disney's California Adventure. This new attraction will open in time for the resort's 50th anniversary in 2021. It was announced at D23 Expo Japan in February 2018 that this attraction would be one of the largest enclosed roller coasters in the world.