Fifty years ago this week, Space Mountain opened in Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World. The original Space Mountain, which opened at Walt Disney World in 1975, was the first fully-enclosed, dark roller coaster and the first to be controlled by a computer.

When the ride opened on Jan. 15, 1975, an Apollo moonwalker was its first passenger, NASA's insignia was on display and Space Mountain was dedicated to opening the new frontier.

Space Mountain in Disney’s Magic Kingdom Park celebrates its 50th anniversary Wednesday and the park is set to celebrate. Throughout the night of January 15, the exterior of Space Mountain will bathed in a golden glow visible throughout the Magic Kingdom.

Space Mountain is one of the most recognizable theme park attractions around the world, but here’s what you may not know about the beloved ride.