Thanks for your responses! - Having 'ground out' the math I see your point!

I must confess that I miss the "Saturn-V era" :( --- While reusable orbiters serve an undeniable & vital function they just don't capture the imagination nor produce the enthusiasm attendant to *TRUE* celestial navigation... (Please note: I say this *WITHOUT* disrespect to Shuttle Program participants!!!)

Another point: To all who proclaim the Apollo program a hoax, based upon the observation that our present (short term) space program is far less ambitious - I ask you to consider the disparity in funding!!! I haven't the figures at hand, however I may safely assume that JFK's 'End Of The Decade' mandate placed an unprecedented 'lid-peeling' effect upon the coffers!!! -- Moreover public opinion was 'different' back then! - It is indeed a sad statement on our species that competition, on the whole, exerts greater motivation than our intrinsic - *uniquely human* - desire to quest for adventure, discovery & knowledge...

Thanks again folks!!! :)
Very best regards
Sarandon