The Comet roller coaster at Hersheypark in Hershey, Pennsylvania, is a thrilling wooden coaster that reaches a maximum speed of 50 miles per hour (80 km/h). This classic ride, designed by Herbert Paul Schmeck and built by Philadelphia Toboggan Coasters, features a modified double out and back track layout. With its impressive speed, height, and unique design elements, the Comet offers an exhilarating experience for park visitors.
What Are the Key Specifications of the Comet?
The Comet boasts several notable specifications that contribute to its thrilling ride experience:
- Maximum Speed: 50 mph (80 km/h)
- Height: 84 feet (26 meters)
- Drop: 78 feet (24 meters)
- Length: 3,360 feet (1,020 meters)
- Duration: 1 minute and 45 seconds
- Hourly Capacity: 950 riders per hour
These specifications combine to create a roller coaster that offers both speed and airtime, making it a favorite among Hersheypark visitors.
How Does the Comet’s Speed Compare to Other Roller Coasters?
While 50 mph may not seem exceptionally fast compared to some modern steel coasters, it’s important to consider the Comet’s wooden construction and its status as a classic ride. Here’s a comparison of the Comet’s speed to other notable roller coasters:
| Roller Coaster | Park | Type | Max Speed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Comet | Hersheypark | Wooden | 50 mph |
| El Toro | Six Flags Great Adventure | Wooden | 70 mph |
| Millennium Force | Cedar Point | Steel | 93 mph |
| Kingda Ka | Six Flags Great Adventure | Steel | 128 mph |
As you can see, while the Comet isn’t the fastest coaster in the world, its 50 mph speed is still impressive for a wooden roller coaster, especially considering its age and classic design.
What Makes the Comet’s Ride Experience Unique?
The Comet’s ride experience is characterized by several unique features that complement its 50 mph top speed:
- Modified Double Out and Back Layout: This track design provides a longer ride experience with multiple direction changes.
- 96-foot Lift Hill: The initial climb builds anticipation for the thrilling descent.
- 47-degree First Drop: This steep initial plunge helps the coaster reach its top speed quickly.
- Airtime-Producing Bunny Hills: These smaller hills create moments of weightlessness throughout the ride.
- Multiple 180-degree Turns: Sharp turns add lateral forces to the ride experience.
- ‘Dog Leg’ Turn: This unique turn element adds variety to the coaster’s layout.
These elements work together to create a ride that feels faster and more thrilling than its 50 mph top speed might suggest on paper.
How Does the Comet’s Speed Affect Rider Experience?
The 50 mph speed of the Comet contributes significantly to the overall rider experience:
- Wind Rush: At this speed, riders feel a strong rush of wind, enhancing the sensation of speed.
- Quick Direction Changes: The coaster’s layout allows it to maintain a high speed through turns and hills.
- Sustained G-Forces: The combination of speed and track layout creates varying g-forces throughout the ride.
- Airtime Moments: The speed helps create negative g-forces on hills, lifting riders out of their seats.
These factors combine to make the Comet feel faster and more intense than its maximum speed alone might indicate.
What Safety Features Are in Place for the Comet’s Speed?
Given the Comet’s 50 mph top speed, Hersheypark has implemented several safety features and rules:
- Height Restriction: Riders must be at least 42 inches (107 cm) tall.
- New Trains: For the 2024 season, new trains with individual lap bars were introduced.
- Secure Storage: No hand-held items, food, or drinks are allowed on the ride.
- Personal Item Rules: Eyeglasses, sunglasses, and long hair or clothing must be secured.
- Accessibility Considerations: The ride may not accommodate guests of larger size due to the safety restraint system.
These measures ensure that riders can safely enjoy the Comet’s speed and thrills.
How Has the Comet’s Speed Impacted Its Popularity?
The Comet’s 50 mph speed, combined with its classic wooden coaster charm, has contributed to its enduring popularity:
- Nostalgic Appeal: The Comet offers a traditional wooden coaster experience at a thrilling speed.
- Family-Friendly Thrills: The speed is fast enough to excite but not so extreme as to deter younger or less adventurous riders.
- Repeat Ridership: The combination of speed and unique layout elements encourages multiple rides.
- Historical Significance: As one of Hersheypark’s older attractions, the Comet’s maintained speed and thrill factor have helped it remain relevant.
What Maintenance Is Required to Maintain the Comet’s Speed?
To ensure the Comet consistently reaches and safely maintains its 50 mph top speed, Hersheypark implements a rigorous maintenance schedule:
- Daily Inspections: Track and train components are checked before park opening.
- Regular Lubrication: Moving parts are lubricated to reduce friction and maintain speed.
- Track Maintenance: Wooden tracks are regularly inspected and repaired to ensure a smooth ride.
- Train Upgrades: As evidenced by the 2024 train replacement, the park invests in modernizing equipment.
- Off-Season Overhauls: More extensive maintenance and upgrades are performed when the park is closed.
This dedication to maintenance ensures that the Comet continues to deliver its thrilling 50 mph experience year after year.
In conclusion, while the Comet’s top speed of 50 mph at Hershey Park may not break any world records, it provides an exhilarating experience that has stood the test of time. The combination of this speed with the coaster’s unique layout, classic wooden construction, and well-maintained condition continues to make it a must-ride attraction for Hersheypark visitors.
References:
1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Comet_(Hersheypark)
2. https://www.hersheypark.com/explore-the-park/rides/comet/
3. https://coasterpedia.net/wiki/Comet_(Hersheypark)