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“Ground Control to Major Tom” might be a Bowie classic — but in my imagination, it’s also what the Apollo 11 crew said when they set foot on the moon. Did that actually happen? Probably not. But is there definitive proof they didn’t say it? Exactly.
What we do know is this: on July 20, 1969, nearly 55 years ago, Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin made history, walking on the moon for the first time. And believe it or not, they did it wearing some very stylish shades.
Original Pilot Blue Moon Glasses
$325.00
Buy Now on american optical
To celebrate the upcoming anniversary of the moon landing, American Optical, the original creator of the aviator silhouette, has released a replica of the same sunglasses worn by astronauts on the Mercury, Gemini, and Apollo missions. Called the Original Pilot Blue Moon Limited Edition, this once-in-a-lifetime drop has only 500 pairs available for purchase. In other words: if you want them, don’t moonwalk, but run.
Each pair is handcrafted in the USA, according to the brand, and comes with a unique serial number, so you know you’re getting the real deal, not some knockoff. They also feature subtle space-inspired design details that pay homage to astronaut suits, so you’ll feel like a “Rocket Man” (or woman) wherever your daily mission takes you.
Photo by Eric F. Long, Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum
Original Pilot Blue Moon Glasses
$325.00
Buy Now on american optical
Here’s another fun fact: American Optical didn’t just outfit astronauts. Their aviators have been worn by John F. Kennedy, Tom Cruise in Top Gun, and the U.S. military as far back as 1935. So basically, if they’re good enough for former presidents, Hollywood’s elite, and the armed forces, they’re good enough for us.
Each purchase comes with a premium case, cleaning supplies, a certificate of authenticity, and a gift box, per the brand’s site. They’re unisex, they go with everything from jeans to jetpacks, and yes, they’ll add a cool, cosmic edge to whatever you match them with.
Brian Edward
Original Pilot Blue Moon Glasses
$325.00
Buy Now on american optical
If you want to own a piece of space history, don’t wait. These Original Pilot Blue Moon Limited Edition shades are going fast, ahead of the anniversary on July 20. We suggest moving at the speed of light to grab them while you still can, because they won’t be in stock for much longer.
