They will then be flown by helicopter to a hospital in the town of Copiapo -- approximately a 15-minute flight.

CNN: Rescue drill reaches 33 trapped Chilean miners

Several of the miners carried an image of the Virgin Mary to the Cathedral in Copiapo, where the thanksgiving service took place.

BBC: Chile marks year since mine collapse

President Sebastian Pinera joined most of the miners at a religious ceremony in the town of Copiapo to give thanks for their rescue.

BBC: Chile marks year since mine collapse

Copiapo, Chile (CNN) -- Chilean officials said Thursday the first test of a rescue capsule designed to rescue 33 trapped miners was carried out successfully.

CNN: STORY HIGHLIGHTS

Earlier in the day, Copiapo Regional Hospital Subdirector Dr. Jorge Montes said there would be no restrictions on the activities of the three men released first.

CNN: Hospital releases all but 2 of the 33 freed Chilean miners

Copiapo, Chile (CNN) -- Chile's mining minister expressed optimism Thursday that the 33 miners trapped since early last month 2, 300 feet (701 meters) below ground here will be rescued in early November and maybe sooner.

CNN: STORY HIGHLIGHTS