epcotexplorer:

Space Mountain: Concept and Construction

While Disneyland’s Matterhorn as the honor of being the first thrill ride and roller coaster in any Magic Kingdom park, Space Mountain captures the distinction of being highly more complex, larger, and far more imposing. 

Based off a idea of Walt’s called “Space Port” the massive building was supposed to encompass many attractions, but just ended up being a thrilling ride through the cosmos, in a dome, so that stars and celestial bodies could be projected and adorn the walls. 

The ride also has the distinction of being built in Walt Disney World first, where, in 1975, Tomorrowland was finally completed with the addition of Space Mountain, The Carousel of Progress, The WEDWay PeopleMover, and the Star Jets. 

To further increase capacity, the ride was designed with dual tracks, and for the first time ever, with the aid of a computer. Not to mention the models I have pictured above.