To quote Ralph Kramden, one of these days – bang zoom to the moon! And one of these days is today! NASA’s Artemis II launched its mission to the moon Wednesday evening, marking humanity’s return to the moon for the first time since 1972. (Though this mission will be limited to orbiting the moon.)

I’m marking the occasion by sharing some of my favorite lunar-themed roadside pics, many featured in my book “The Great American Retro Road Trip.”

MTV Moonman, Sanford, Florida (salvaged from 2004 MTV Music Awards in Miami)

Moon Motel, Howell, New Jersey (sign removed for restoration, motel razed)

Silver Moon Drive-In Theatre, Lakeland, Florida

Big Space Helmet, Wapakoneta, Oklahoma (Neil Armstrong’s hometown)

Moon Air HVAC, Elkton, Maryland

Half Moon Bar & Restaurant, New Orleans

Four more on my Instagram: instagram.com/p/DWm8LlE…