Once repairs are under way, Russian commander Vasili Tsibliev, wearing a space suit, will have to enter the depressurized Spektr module and re-connect several cables from the solar panels. The cables must be run back through the new hatch to the Mir's power system. The process is complex, but Russian scientists say it can be done. Always there is some part of a danger in connection with every spacewalk. Monday's docking is a similar procedure to the one that resulted in the June collision, but the two ships will dock automatically instead of manually this time.
Scientists say they are keeping their fingers crossed that there is no repeat performance.
Moscow Bureau Chief Jill Dougherty contributed to this report. Inc. All Rights Reserved. Terms under which this service is provided to you.