Disneyland, California 1966 – Astro Jets ride

This authentic 1960s color photograph, captured in 1966, documents the Astro Jets attraction in Tomorrowland at Disneyland in Anaheim, California. The archival image captures the ride’s signature red and white checkered central pylon, with sleek, finned rocket vehicles spinning at the ends of long hydraulic arms. In the background, the red gondolas of the Skyway are visible passing over the lush treeline of the park. Originally opened in 1956, the Astro Jets allowed guests to control the height of their rockets as they “orbited” the Tomorrowland landscape. This specific photo was taken just before the area underwent the massive “New Tomorrowland” renovation in 1967. While Disneyland is still standing and remains a premier global destination, this version of the ride was renamed the Tomorrowland Jets in 1964 and eventually replaced by the Rocket Jets, which were relocated to the top of the PeopleMover platform. Today, the Astro Orbitor serves as the modern successor to this classic attraction. This factual record captures the optimistic, “Space Age” design and kinetic energy that defined the original Tomorrowland. All our images are available as royalty-free instant downloads for use in books, media, and creative projects – or make your own prints for home, work, or as a truly unique gift.