beer0space

This is a dumb question, but I'm going to ask anyway. Are you recovering you assemblies with the science modules attached? For example, if you exit your capsule after landing and then recover, you only recover your astronaut. If this fits, try checking the tracking station to see if you can recover your capsules.

I would say your chances are slim. In my limited experience, fuel is the number one issue, and the more advanced fuel tanks make an enormous difference when trying to construct a rocket that will take you to the Mun and back with a little forgiveness to correct mistakes.