Chilean miners could be rescued next week

Officials say they expect to have the trapped men above ground sometime between Oct. 15 and 30.

As drills get closer to the miners trapped 624 meters below ground, the rescue operation that has captivated world attention is entering its final, most dangerous phase. The second of three drills, nicknamed Plan B, is expected to reach the miners’ underground shelter soon, but officials are still trying to determine if the rescue shaft will need to be encased in steel before they can begin to bring the men out. Once the shaft is determined to be safe, a navy commando and a paramedic will be lowered down to help bring the miners to the surface, one by one. It may take more than one hour to bring each man up.