Space station utilization in lunar orbit

An effective lunar exploration system can be created by flying a modified earth-orbit space station in polar lunar orbit as a remote sensor platform and lander deployment base. Objectives of such a lunar station can be categorized by (1) science, (2) technology and (3) operational experimentation. A plan for orbital investigations and surface exploration is presented. The lunar environment, as well as interactions with the lunar landers, logistics shuttles, and a propellant depot levy unique requirements for the conversion of an earth station to lunar applications. It appears feasible and highly economical to use a modified earth-orbit station for major advances in lunar exploration.