At the 1:18-1:20 mark of the following opening credits video for DS9 there are some flashing objects that I've never seen in an episode.
I don't really recall them ever going outside the station and doing repairs externally. It looks like this might be an automatic welding apparatus of some sort.
Does anybody have any idea what those two flashing objects are? If they are some kind of automated welders, if you have any info on them, their functionality, etc. that'd be great.
If there's a DS9 companion or manual of some sort that his this info, please cite what it's called. EU and writers notes, are welcome.
If there's a DS9 episode where they go outside the station to effect repairs please mention the episode.