Amateur Radio Satellites: FCC Licensing for Space Stations

Amateur radio has had a presence in space since 1961, when OSCAR 1 (Orbiting Satellite Carrying Amateur Radio) was launched. Today, dozens of amateur radio satellites are in orbit, providing unique communication opportunities and educational value. The FCC licensing of amateur space stations involves additional regulatory considerations beyond standard terrestrial amateur licenses.

The OSCAR Tradition

OSCAR satellites are built and operated by the amateur radio community through organizations like AMSAT (Radio Amateur Satellite Corporation). These satellites carry linear transponders (for SSB and CW communication), FM repeaters, and digital communication systems. They are licensed as amateur radio stations and must comply with both FCC and international radio regulations.

FCC Licensing of Amateur Space Stations

An amateur radio space station requires an FCC license as a space station under Part 97. The license application must include:

• Orbital parameters (altitude, inclination, period)
• Frequency plans (uplink and downlink frequencies)
• Transmitter power and antenna characteristics
• Control station arrangements
• Coordination with other satellite operators to prevent interference

The FCC also coordinates with the ITU and NOAA (for orbital debris concerns) before granting amateur space station authorizations. This makes the licensing process more complex than terrestrial amateur licensing.

Operating Through Amateur Satellites

Any licensed amateur radio operator can use (receive from and transmit to) an amateur satellite. Technician class operators can use satellites that operate on VHF/UHF bands. General and Extra class operators can use HF-capable satellites for longer-range communication. The most popular current satellites for voice operation are SO-50 (2m/70cm FM) and the linear transponder satellites like FO-29 and AO-7.

The ISS as an Amateur Station

The International Space Station carries amateur radio equipment as the ARISS (Amateur Radio on the International Space Station) station. The ISS amateur station is licensed by the FCC as W1AW/Space (and various other designations) and operates under a special coordination arrangement between NASA, ARISS, and the FCC.