ARRL Technician Practice Exam

Which amateur stations are allowed to contact the International Space Station using specific frequencies?

1. Only technicians with special privileges

2. Any amateur holding a Technician or higher class license

3. Only General class licenses

4. Only Extra class license holders

The correct answer is: Any amateur holding a Technician or higher class license

The correct option indicates that any amateur operator holding a Technician class license or higher can contact the International Space Station (ISS) using specific frequencies. This is rooted in the regulations set forth by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and the International Amateur Radio Union (IARU), which govern amateur radio operations. The frequencies allocated for communications with the ISS fall within the bands available to Technician licensees and also extend to those with higher class licenses, such as General and Extra. This inclusivity encourages participation among a broader range of amateur operators and promotes interest in space communication and exploration. Furthermore, the ISS is known to carry out educational outreach programs, enabling operators of various license classes to make contact during scheduled passings of the station. For many, this opportunity serves as an exceptional hands-on experience, reinforcing the community aspect of amateur radio. In contrast, limits on the other choices are defined by licensing privileges. For instance, while Extra and General class operators may operate on more frequencies, the capacity to contact the ISS is not strictly limited to them, thereby opening the door for Technicians as well. Thus, the correct choice reflects the broader access intended for amateur operators wishing to engage with space-based communications.