This week in Disney History: Jan. 13-19

There’s always a great big, beautiful tomorrow here at Imagineering Parks, because every day is tied to a milestone in our heritage and history! This ongoing series is published every Monday and features highlights for each day of the week. You can use these to hone your Disney trivia, strike up conversations with Guests, or even relive the nostalgia of yesteryear.

All personnel, clear the launch platform.

You are go for Earth side launch! On Jan. 15, 1975, Space Mountain opened its port doors for the first galaxy-bound travelers at Magic Kingdom Park. This classic ride was envisioned by Imagineers in the 1960s when space travel became a remarkable reality, not just the stuff of science fiction. Even real astronauts joined the creative team in developing this attraction.

Due to rocketing in popularity, Space Mountain attractions have since opened at Disneyland Park in 1977, at Tokyo Disneyland in 1983, at Disneyland Paris in 1995, and at Hong Kong Disneyland in 2005.

This Week:

Jan. 13, 1930 – The first Mickey Mouse comic strip appears, distributed by King Features Syndicate

Jan. 14, 2005 – Now You See It (Disney Channel Original Movie) debuts

Jan. 15, 1975 – Space Mountain opens at Magic Kingdom Park

Jan. 16, 1930 – The Silly Symphony Summer debuts

Jan. 17, 2003 – That’s So Raven debuts on Disney Channel

Jan. 18, 1952 – Donald Applecore (Donald Duck cartoon) debuts

Jan. 19, 2011 – Disney Dream cruise ship is officially christened