ARRL Technician Practice Exam

Who may be the control operator of a station communicating through an amateur satellite or space station?

1. Any licensed amateur who operates on HF frequencies

2. Any amateur whose license privileges allow them to transmit on the satellite uplink frequency

3. Only experienced amateurs with a General class license

4. Only amateurs with a specific satellite operations endorsement

The correct answer is: Any amateur whose license privileges allow them to transmit on the satellite uplink frequency

The correct answer is that any amateur whose license privileges allow them to transmit on the satellite uplink frequency may serve as the control operator of a station communicating through an amateur satellite or space station. This is because amateur radio is structured around various license classes, each granting specific operating privileges. For satellite operations, the key component is having the appropriate privileges on the uplink frequency. If a licensed amateur has been granted license privileges that include the use of the frequencies involved in satellite communication, they are eligible to control the operation of those communications. This inclusiveness encourages participation in satellite operations among a wider range of amateur operators, as it leverages the existing licensing structure without imposing restrictive advanced experience or endowment requirements. It ensures that any licensed individual can contribute to and engage in the unique aspects of satellite communication, as long as they are operating within the confines of their license's allowances. In contrast to the other responses—such as limitations based on license class or specific endorsements—this answer reflects the goal of the amateur radio community to foster growth, innovation, and inclusivity, allowing different levels of licensed operators to engage with the exciting technology of amateur satellites.