Moonlight Mile (manga)
Moonlight Mile is a Japanese seinen manga series written and illustrated by Yasuo Ohtagaki. It tells the story of two mountaineering friends, Gorou Saruwatari and Jack "Lostman" F. Woodbridge, and their individual but interconnected pursuits related to space exploration and its associated economic and political ramifications.
Gorou, a Japanese climber, becomes involved in the construction of a lunar base after an incident during a mountain climb leaves him with newfound resources and connections. His storyline focuses on the practicalities and dangers of working and living in space, as well as the global political landscape surrounding space development.
Jack, an American climber and former Green Beret, follows a more secretive and dangerous path. He becomes entangled with a clandestine organization seeking to control access to lunar resources and advanced space technology. His narrative explores themes of espionage, terrorism, and the potential for weaponization in space.
The series is noted for its realistic depiction of space travel and technology, combined with its compelling characters and intricate plot. It explores various themes including international relations, technological advancement, personal ambition, and the human drive for exploration. It also delves into the psychological effects of isolation and the ethical considerations surrounding the exploitation of extraterrestrial resources. The manga is characterized by its detailed artwork and strong sense of realism.