The concept for the attraction that would become Star Tours actually had its origins in another film, the 1979 Disney feature The Black Hole. The
original concept was an interactive ride simulator, where guests would have
the ability to choose the ship's route. At the time, however, the cost to
develop the attraction proved exorbitant (approximately $50 million by one estimation). Another factor in the shelving of project was the lackluster performance of the film at the box office.

But all was not lost. During this time, Disney had formed a partnership with
Star Wars creator George Lucas (who had worked together to create the Epcot 3D film Captain EO). The plans for a simulator-type attraction were revived, this time with a Star Wars theme. The Disneyland version opened on January 9, 1987 (at a final cost of $32 million), remaining open for an
extraordinary 60 hour marathon! The Disney's Hollywood Studios version debuted two years later.