Contractor For Spaceship Earth
The history of Walt Disney World includes the artisans, builders, construction workers, and contractors who often remain nameless, yet their contributions are vital to the magic we experience today. These individuals and companies transformed the ambitious blueprints into the iconic attractions that define the parks. Documenting their stories, like the one found in the August 8, 1980 Eyes & Ears newsletter about the official contractor for Spaceship Earth, is important for preserving the tapestry of Disney’s history.
Understanding the efforts behind constructing monumental attractions like Spaceship Earth not only honors the hard work and creativity of those involved but also provides insight into the innovative processes and challenges that shaped these attractions. By recording these stories, we ensure that future researchers can appreciate the collaborative spirit and human ingenuity behind Disney’s theme parks, reminding us that the magic we enjoy today is rooted in real-world craftsmanship and dedication.
Contract Let for Spaceship Earth
Contracts have been awarded for construction of a 182-foot -high sphere to house Spaceship Earth, plus surrounding guest reception, merchandise, and service structures forming the entrance to EPCOT Center. Spaceship Earth will be a major theme show in the Future World area of EPCOT Center.
The contract, probably the largest one in the $800-million project, was awarded to Darin & Armstrong Inc., of Southfield, Mich. The globe, which houses Spaceship Earth, is 168 feet in diameter and rests on 14-foot-high steel supports. It will be covered with triangular shaped aluminum panels. Guests entering EPCOT Center will pass beneath the structure.
The Spaceship Earth complex which has five levels for show, guest areas and service functions, contains approximately 120,000 square feet of floor space, including three connecting buildings.
The Spaceship Earth show itself, including a new ride system which will transport guests on a curving path up into the sphere, will be covered under other contracts.
The construction of Spaceship Earth was a monumental effort, requiring innovative engineering and the collaboration of skilled contractors like Darin & Armstrong Inc. Their work laid the foundation for one of EPCOT Center’s most iconic structures, a testament to human ingenuity and imagination. The intricate design, from the towering steel supports to the aluminum paneling, reflects the futuristic vision that EPCOT embodied.
As guests pass beneath the grand sphere or journey through its immersive show, they are experiencing more than a ride—they are witnessing the culmination of craftsmanship and creativity. Spaceship Earth remains a symbol of progress and possibility, inspiring generations to look toward the future.
EPCOT Center Book Video
Love Epcot? Check out the ultimate EPCOT Center books!
When discussing Disney books, few hold as much admiration as Richard Beard’s iconic Epcot Center book, often referred to simply as “Beard’s Epcot book.” What many don’t realize is that this celebrated title exists in three distinct versions. Each offers unique insights and perspectives on EPCOT Center, making them invaluable resources for fans of Disney history. If you’re curious about the differences between these versions, be sure to check out my video exploring all three in detail!
It’s hard to believe that the contract to build the sphere was signed less than 2 years from park opening. Especially that the ride system was to be built by another contractor. I haven’t see a lot of in construction pictures, but I have to think that there had to be a lot of coordination of building the ride while the sphere was far enough along to be able to support the ride, but not so far that the tracks and scene supports couldn’t be maneuvered into place.
I’m still intrigued how they got what seems to be a full size hatchback car up to the top in the Siemens refurb.