Robb -
You haven't been on Universe of Energy since 1996? How is this even possible?
I think I've ridden it at least five time *on two separate trips to EPCOT* this year (I've actually been to WDW three times this year on separate trips. I know, it's a sickness, I'm dialing it back, starting by not renewing my season pass. You'll be happy to know I didn't ride the big (gay boat ride? no, that's the Land) lesbian dinosaur ride last week when I was there. For once. (But I always make time for Turtle Talk.)
Yes, it's outdated, tone-deaf compared to today's environmental issues, and incredibly corny - but it also has Alex Trebeck and Activia Lady and Bill Nye the used-to-be-popular-Science guy!
I go because the music is awesome and the pavilion itself is still rather spectacular.