'Discovery' Astronauts Begin Second Spacewalk

"Discovery" approaching the ISS on 28 July 1 August 2005 (RFE/RL) -- Two astronauts from the U.S. space shuttle "Discovery" early today began their second space walk of the mission in a bid to replace a faulty gyroscope aboard the International Space Station, the ISS.

Japanese astronaut Soichi Noguchi and American Steve Robinson are to replace the gyroscope, one of four devices that help keep the ISS in predetermined orbit.

In a slight adjustment to the program, Noguchi and Robinson will also test the exit hatch after they move into the cargo bay.

The change was prompted by some "difficulties" the astronauts experienced while closing the hatch after their space walk on 30 July.

The nature of the difficulties was not specified.

(AFP)

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