Space

DATE=07/17/01

TYPE=CORRESPONDENT REPORT

TITLE=SHUTTLE-SPACE STATION (S)

NUMBER=2-278320

BYLINE=DAVID McALARY

DATELINE=WASHINGTON

CONTENT=

INTERNET=

VOICED AT:

INTRO: Minor technical problems with the international space station's new exterior passageway may delay the first spacewalk from the port by one day. V-O-A Science Correspondent David McAlary reports this would extend the shuttle "Atlantis'" visit by 24 hours.

TEXT: Shuttle astronauts are a half day behind schedule setting up the station's new spacewalk exit. To gain back the time, mission officials may delay Friday's test spacewalk until Saturday.

The crew lost the time fixing a small water leak in one of the vestibule's cooling lines Monday and working unsuccessfully Tuesday to repair a leaky air valve.

The valve carries station air into the airlock and must shut off to lower the passageway's pressure before astronauts can go into the vacuum of space. A temporary seal will allow Saturday's spacewalk.

Another excursion to mount oxygen and nitrogen canisters on top of the new gateway is still scheduled for Wednesday because it is taking place from the shuttle. (SIGNED)

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