NASA to help trapped Chilean miners
Experts from the U.S. space agency NASA are due to arrive today at the copper mine in Chile, where 33 miners are still trapped underground. The experts will advise the Chilean government on how to support the miners until they are rescued
Reporter:
Gideon Long
The NASA team -- a doctor, a nutritionist, an engineer and a psychologist - have a wealth of experience of space missions. They're used to helping astronauts cope with extreme conditions and months of solitude.
The miners they're here to help are gaining in strength. Later they're due to eat their first hot meal in 26 days. Until now, medics have been giving them high protein drinks and dietary supplements.
New video footage of the men was shown on Chilean state television on Tuesday. They seemed healthier and more cheerful than in previous videos.
The company that owns the mine has asked for forgiveness from the miners' relatives, many of whom have accused it of ignoring safety guidelines. The firm denies the accusations, but described the unfolding drama at the San Jose mine as "a terrible situation".
While the rescuers attempt to drill down to the men, there's also concern for their colleagues up above, who were fortunate enough to escape the rock collapse, but who haven't been able to work for nearly a month.
The company paid their wages until the end of August, but is rumoured to be on the verge of bankruptcy. The government says it's helping the miners to find new jobs.
Gideon Long, BBC News, Chile
nutritionist
nutricionista
a wealth of experience
mucha experiencia / un mar de experiencia
solitude
soledad
gaining in strength
(se están) poniendo más fuertes
high protein drinks
bebidas altas en proteínas
dietary supplements
suplementos alimenticios
accusations
acusaciones
unfolding drama
drama / crisis en desarrollo
fortunate
afortunados
on the verge of bankruptcy
al borde de la bancarrota
~RS~a~RS~spanish~RS~q~RS~~RS~z~RS~12~RS~){kind=small}
