Summary of Apollo and Lunar Logistics System Plans
The basic mission objective of Project Apollo is to land men on the Moon and return them to Earth at the earliest practicable date. The Apollo crew will consist of three men, two of whom will land on the surface of the Moon, conduct surface operations for up to 24 hr, and then rejoin the third crew member in lunar orbit for return to Earth. Initial Apollo spacecraft capabilities will require the early landings to be within +or-lO deg of the lunar equator on the visible side of the Moon, with preference for landing sites in the leading quadrant (between 270 and 360 deg lunar longitude). As presently planned, the Apollo spacecraft will be capable of carrying approximately 200 lb of scientific equipment to the lunar surface and of bringing approximately 80 lb of lunar material back to Earth. A detailed plan for utilization of crew capabilities while on the lunar surface is not expected to be complete for some time. The first Apollo lunar mission is now scheduled for the late 1960's with additional launches planned at reasonable intervals. i