Which amateurs may contact the International Space Station (ISS) on VHF bands?

• A. Only Extra class licensees
• B. Any amateur holding a Technician class or higher license
• C. Only General class licensees
• D. Novice class licensees only

Answer: (B)

Any amateur holding a Technician class or higher license is allowed to contact the International Space Station (ISS) on VHF bands. This is primarily due to the nature of the Technician class license, which grants privileges on various VHF and UHF bands, including those that are commonly used for satellite communications. The ISS operates on frequencies that are accessible to Technician class licensees, making it possible for operators with this level of certification to communicate with astronauts on board.

Moreover, expanding upon the licensing structure, the Technician class serves as an entry-level license that includes privileges for communication via certain satellite modes and VHF frequency allocations. Consequently, those licensed at this level or higher, including General and Extra class licensees, can participate in these communications.