Notes : The Regula series of stations were designed as small, flexible platforms for long-duration scientific missions in isolated locations. These kinds of missions could last for years; keeping a science team on station for that length of time would require the commitment of either a major starship asset or a fleet of small science vessels relieving one another every few months. Either of these was a significant draw on resources, while a small fixed station would offer the same capability at a fraction of the resources.

The stations were designed to be as simple and quick to build as possible, while offering the maximum flexibility in equipment. The Regula 1 station incorporated a 30 metre diameter dome capable of holding a large system such as an optical telescope, while the interior spaces included Geoplastics and Thermonics labs and a small particle accelerator ring.

The stations had very little armament - the shields were included largely to screen the station from naturally occurring background radiation during sensitive experiments, while small phasers were included to provide defence against larger meteors and to deter raiders.

The most notable of the Regula stations was the first, Regula 1. The Genesis Project created by Carol Marcus had profound political and military implications; by housing it in a remote outpost the Federation hoped to assist in maintaining the secrecy around Genesis. In any case, stage two of the Genesis project required a large and completely lifeless underground location in an isolated spot.

Unfortunately, the isolation of Regula also proved to be a major drawback when the project was attacked by Khan and the stolen USS Reliant. The only vessel nearby was the USS Enterprise, on a training mission with a largely cadet crew. The Enterprise was eventually forced to cripple the Reliant, provoking Khan to detonate the Genesis device with a Mutara nebula.

The Regula stations provided valuable service for many years, but they have now been replaced by larger and more capable designs. none now remain in service.