At this late date some of the key points about the Chilean miners’ rescue operation remain uncertain.

1. Timing. Government officials said earlier the rescue would begin at midnight local time Tuesday (11 pm Eastern). Part of the reason was concern for the miners exposure to bright sunlight after two months underground. Later reports said the rescue would begin at dawn to allow the helicopters to fly the miners to a local hospital. Recent radio reports say it could now begin anytime between 7pm-midnight local.

The Chilean government has often done things ahead of schedule: setting expectations then beating them. This could happen again with the rescue start.

2. Who will come out first. The government reportedly has a list of the first four miners who will come out, but the list is being kept secret. There is also a battle for who will come out last, with several vying for the honor. The final determination of the order is likely to be made by a Navy medic who goes down into the mine.

3. What we will see. There will be a live government T.V. feed of the rescue operation and a platform set up for the world media, yet there is likely to be a screen that blocks the miners from view. They could even be taken through an inflatable tunnel directly into ambulances. The miners themselves have requested time for privacy with family. Yet, if the operation is a success there will be great pressure for at least a brief appearance before the cameras.

Developing story: Keep checking back for updates.