Astronauts Begin Space Station Repairs

First of multiple spacewalks needed is underway
By Newser Editors,  Newser Staff
Posted Dec 21, 2013 9:46 AM CST
Astronauts Begin Space Station Repairs
In this image from NASA, astronaut Rick Mastracchio performs a spacewalk outside the International Space Station.   (AP Photo/NASA)

Two US astronauts are in the midst of the first of two and perhaps three spacewalks needed to repair the cooling system of the International Space Station, reports AP. Rick Mastracchio and Michael Hopkins will work on the faulty pump today, Monday, and again on Christmas Day if necessary. You can watch the spacewalk live here via Space.com. Also of note today: The pair have what the New York Times calls "makeshift snorkels" to allow them to breathe in the event of a suit malfunction like this one in July. (More International Space Station stories.)

Get the news faster.
Tap to install our app.
X
Install the Newser News app
in two easy steps:
1. Tap in your navigation bar.
2. Tap to Add to Home Screen.

X