geologic maps being the primary end product, (2) surface exploration, consisting of field checking the geologic maps supplemented by appropriate geophysical, geochemical, and other investigations aimed at a better understanding of the Moon's unique environment, and (3) based on the firm foundation of knowledge gathered during the above phases of study, establishment of a scientific station that would permit more sophisticated investigations, possibly involving the use of an astronomical laboratory and laboratory facilities.

A fourth phase of lunar operations can also be anticipated at this time, but its exact nature and implications have still been only incompletely studied. This phase might involve the exploration for, and utilization of, lunar resources. Those of immediate importance might be such things as water and materials to aid in construction of lunar facilities, to provide additional life support, or to provide fuel. Studies to date have shown that two alternate systems, based on APOLLO technology, are feasible for supporting the missions described above. These two systems are described in the following paragraphs. The APOLLO logistic support system (ALSS)

To support the initial phases of advanced manned lunar exploration, the APOLLO logistic support system (ALSS) has been conceived. This system could become integrated with Project APOLLO in that it would utilize APOLLO launch and control facilities, the SATURN V launch vehicle, the APOLLO command and service modules, and the APOLLO lunar excursion module (LEM) modified to deliver equipment from lunar orbit to the lunar surface.

Studies show that the ALSS is the minimum addition to Project APOLLO that could provide a meaningful increase in manned lunar exploration data return. The additional items required are manned lunar orbital reconnaissance equipment, modifications to the APOLLO LEM, and lunar surface systems.

A manned lunar orbital reconnaissance capability is included to allow scientists to make a thorough study of the lunar surface over large areas and in inaccessible regions-e.g., mountainous regions and regions on the back side. Sensors being studied for possible use cover a broad band of the electromagnetic spectrum. Included, in addition to survey cameras and surface probes, are radar, infrared sensors, active and passive ultraviolet sensors and gamma ray sensors. In addition, gravity and magnetic field measurements that might be made from orbit are also being studied. The high resolution data that appears possible from lunar orbit would permit the compilation of composite, multispectral maps to be used as tools in identifying geological provinces and gross, morphological features. These multispectral maps would be used in conjunction with photogeological maps made from visible light photographs obtained by the unmanned lunar orbiter and the orbiting APOLLO spacecraft in selecting areas for manned, surface investigation.

Modifications to the LEM will involve the removal of the ascent stage and the repositioning in the descent stage those subsystems necessary for a one-way, unmanned descent from lunar orbit to the lunar surface (fig. 75). The items to be repositioned are components. of the communication, stabilization and control, navigation and guidance, reaction control, thermal control, and the power subsystems. Engineering studies have shown this concept to be feasible. This

single-stage, unmanned cargo-carrying LEM is now being called the LEM truck.

Atop the LEM truck, surface equipment ranging in weight from 7,000 to 9,000 pounds could be stowed. In this weight class, surface systems with the following capabilities could be carried:

1. A modular, mobile laboratory having a radiation-shielded cab for two men, 500 pounds of scientific equipment, and an effective range of approximately 300 miles during exploration missions as long as 14 days (fig. 76). Figure 77 compares the region near the crater Kepler with the State of New Jersey, and the short traverse on figure 78 illustrates how a portion of this region can be explored by such a system.

2. A radiation-shielded shelter-laboratory with approximately 400 cubic feet of living space for two men and a smaller roving vehicle to transport man short distances from the landing point are shown in figure 79.

The ALSS could be available at the time of the first manned lunar landing attempt if development is initiated soon. ALSS mission planning would be guided by the knowledge of the lunar surface at that time. However, as now conceived, ALSS missions would be interspersed with the APOLLO landings in a manner to derive maximum benefit from the man-hours and surfa ce travel that could be made available.

The lunar exploration system for APOLLO (LESA)

The lunar exploration system for APOLLO (LESA) would provide the maximum support for the manned lunar exploration mission within the capabilities of APOLLO technology. It, too, is a system based on APOLLO in that it would utilize APOLLO launch and control facilities and the SATURN V launch vehicle. Additional items required for LESA are manned lunar orbital reconnaissance equipment; a new, unmanned spacecraft for the SATURN V launch vehicle; and lunar surface systems.

The manned lunar orbital reconnaissance equipment would be the same as that described under the ALSS, above.

Conceptually, the new, unmanned spacecraft (fig. 80) would consist of two cryogenic (liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen) stages and an instrument unit for communications, navigation, and guidance. Studies show that this spacecraft could deliver lunar surface payloads in the 25,000 to 30,000 pound weight class. The flight would be remotely controlled from Earth to a preselected point on the lunar surface. The payload system would be checked by telemetry upon landing and during its waiting period and be activated by remote control prior to the arrival of the astronaut-scientists via the APOLLO system.

The LESA surface payloads are today conceptually defined as a flexible system capable of supporting early manned lunar exploration as well as more sophisticated, extensive scientific work in the years to follow. A single 25,000-pound basic payload delivered to the lunar surface could provide shelter and 1,500 miles of surface mobility for

SATURN V LUNAR LOGISTICS VEHICLE