Astronauts fail to fix solar array during third space walk

0 Comments | AFP, December, 2006

HOUSTON (AFP) — Astronauts have failed to dislodge a stuck solar array on the International Space Station, setting the stage for a likely fourth space walk just to solve the problem. Robert Curbeam and Sunita Williams ended their space walk at 0256 GMT Sunday, after seven and a half hours of working as electricians in space.

They completed a delicate rewiring of the ISS but were unable to get the jammed panel to fold into its box. "They have made some progress ... but it's likely we will have a fourth EVA (extravehicular activity) Monday," a NASA spokesman said, using US space agency speak for a space walk. "The management team is analysing the data but they have already told the crew to be prepared for an EVA," the spokesman said. Earlier Saturday NASA officials approved a...