Big news for longtime readers of Yasuo Ohtagaki’s Moonlight Mile: the manga is resuming with individual chapters made available digitally, and a new full-color edition of volume 24 will be re-released. Below we break down the announcement, the history of the series, where to read the returning chapters, and what this revival means for fans of Ohtagaki’s adventurous, space-bound storytelling.
Ohtagaki’s announcement: Moonlight Mile returns
Yasuo Ohtagaki confirmed on X (formerly Twitter) that Moonlight Mile is resuming serialization with new chapters being sold in e-book stores beginning on April 24. The announcement also revealed that the company No9 (Number Nine) will re-release volume 24 digitally in a new full-color edition, giving collectors and new readers a refreshed way to experience the series.
Yasuo Ohtagaki's announcement on X confirming new chapters and a digital full-color re-release.
Moonlight Mile: a concise history
Manga origins and early publication
Moonlight Mile first launched in Shogakukan's Big Comic Superior magazine in 2000, quickly distinguishing itself with a blend of mountain-climbing daredevilry turned space exploration drama. The story follows adventurers Goro Saruwatari and Jack “Lostman” Woodbridge as they strive to leave Earth and reach the stars, driven by ambition, greed, and the human need to go beyond known limits.
Hiatus and parallel projects
Ohtagaki placed Moonlight Mile on hiatus in 2011 to focus on another major project: Mobile Suit Gundam Thunderbolt, which began serialization in March 2012 in Big Comic Superior. That Gundam series became a notable success, inspiring two original net anime series (ONA) and compilation films, and even a spinoff manga. During that hiatus, Moonlight Mile returned briefly with a few chapters posted on pixiv starting December 25, 2021, giving fans a hint that the saga wasn’t finished.
Collected volumes and recent reprints
Shogakukan continued collecting the series into tankōbon format, and the 24th compiled volume of Moonlight Mile was published in 2023. With the newly announced No9 full-color digital edition of volume 24, readers will soon have access to a refreshed presentation of the story’s recent collected material.
Adaptations and international releases
Moonlight Mile’s action-packed premise and space-opera elements led to a 2007 television anime adaptation. The series has seen international distribution, with ADV Films initially licensing it in North America and Funimation later handling release and distribution. Funimation’s synopsis captures the spirit of the series:
Daredevils Goro Saruwatari and Jack “Lostman” Woodbridge climbed every daunting peak on planet Earth, but they couldn't quench their desire to go even higher. Now, the adventurers vow to conquer space no matter what the cost. And when a precious source of energy is discovered on Mars, Goro and Lostman suddenly find their dreams within reach. They blast off for the far reaches of the galaxy seeking fame and fast women, but discover that hitching a ride on a rocket can get you burned. Undaunted, the astronauts throw caution to the wind and learn that the distance between a hero and his destiny is only a Moonlight Mile.
Where to read the resumed chapters and buy volume 24
According to Ohtagaki’s announcement, individual chapters will be available for purchase in e-book stores starting April 24. No9 will handle the digital full-color re-release of volume 24, which should appear on major digital retailers and e-book platforms. In addition, some chapters previously appeared on pixiv during the brief 2021 resumption; readers can check Ohtagaki’s pixiv posts for any earlier updates. For the official announcement, see Ohtagaki’s post on X. (External links marked nofollow.)
Read Yasuo Ohtagaki’s announcement on X
Visit pixiv to search for the series' resumed chapters
Why the return matters
Moonlight Mile’s revival is significant for several reasons. First, the series has a dedicated fanbase who followed the story through long gaps and spin-offs; new chapters finally advance plotlines left hanging after the hiatus. Second, a full-color re-release of volume 24 signals renewed editorial and publisher support, and may attract new readers who prefer digital editions with enhanced presentation. Third, Ohtagaki’s continued work on both Moonlight Mile and Gundam Thunderbolt demonstrates his sustained influence in both seinen adventure and mecha genres—bridging fans of grounded space drama with those who follow large-scale mecha narratives.
Impact on collectors and newcomers
Collectors who already own physical tankōbon will likely be interested in the full-color digital edition for its remastered artwork and convenience. Meanwhile, newcomers have an easy entry point: start with volume 24’s new color edition and the freshly released chapters to catch up on recent developments before diving into earlier volumes.
What to expect next
Keep an eye on e-book retailers and the publisher No9 for the digital release of volume 24 and the rollout of individual chapters from April 24 onward. Given Ohtagaki’s history of cross-project activity, future developments—such as additional reprints, special editions, or even renewed animation interest—are possible if reception is strong.
Final thoughts
Yasuo Ohtagaki’s return to Moonlight Mile brings welcome momentum to a long-running series that blends human drama, high-altitude daring, and spacefaring ambition. With new chapters hitting e-book stores and a full-color re-release of volume 24, both longtime fans and curious newcomers have fresh reasons to revisit Goro and Lostman’s cosmic climb. Whether you’re a collector, a digital-reader, or someone who enjoyed the 2007 anime, this revival is a reminder that great stories can return stronger—and in brighter color—than before.
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