On one of these walks, the Swede will move cabling on the exterior of the station in readiness for the arrival next year of a connecting unit, called Node 3 or "Tranquility", and a huge window referred to as the Cupola.
The United States has pressed Russia to retire Mir as soon as possible because delays in building the living quarters of the new station have already put the arrival of the first crew back to January 2000, a year and a half later than planned.
Whether it's who will cover Disneyland tickets or the grocery tab or a fill-up at the gas station, having a frank chat before arrival will save a lot of awkwardness later.
Imagine, he says, walking up to an interactive schedule board in an airport or train station and using gestures to sort through departure and arrival information.