Science: A Space Record for the U.S.S.R.

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Though they were nearing the end of their second month in space, Kovalenok and Ivanchenkov appeared to be thriving aboard Salyut, understandably. The spacious ship includes such amenities as a new electronic control system that the Soviets say can take over navigation and control chores from the crew, a shower (Skylab has one too) and a small water-recycling plant. There is also an abundance of scientific equipment, for both observing the earth and performing tests in space. Last week, for instance, the cosmonauts began a new experiment with sprouting seeds to see how well they might grow in zero-g. A little earlier they took a space walk of two hours and five minutes in a new type of space suit, during which they collected sample materials that had been placed outside the ship, checked scientific instruments and installed a new apparatus for measuring radiation. The cosmonauts so enjoyed their televised extraterrestrial stroll that they refused to be rushed back on board by ground controllers. Joked Kovalenok: "We would just like to take our time, since it is the first time in 45 days that we've been out into the street to have a walk."

In contrast with these high-flying Soviet space efforts, NASA is still struggling to save the unoccupied Skylab space station from plunging prematurely to earth. Late last year, Skylab began to show a dangerous loss of altitude, a byproduct of atmospheric effects caused by unexpectedly strong sunspot activity during the current solar cycle. Skylab's descent is being hastened by its wobbling motion, which increases friction as the ship moves through stray molecules of atmosphere in its path. Ground controllers twice tried unsuccessfully to stabilize the craft, hoping to keep it aloft at least until the end of 1979. By then the space shuttle may be ready to carry into space a small booster that could be attached to Skylab to push it into a higher orbit—or, if that is not possible, to help direct the shaky space station through a fiery, yet safe descent into a remote area of the ocean. Two weeks ago controllers again used Skylab's altitude thrusters and gyros in another attempt to reorient the ship. The maneuver appeared to work, at least for the time being. At week's end space officials were still watching, waiting and keeping their fingers firmly crossed as the unmanned space laboratory streaked across the sky above them.