Technician 2026-2030T1A07

What is the FCC Part 97 definition of a space station?

C
Answer
FCC rules, station licensing, and operator duties
Type
A
Any satellite orbiting Earth
B
A manned satellite orbiting Earth
C
An amateur station located more than 50 km above Earth's surface
D
An amateur station using amateur radio satellites for relay of signals

Answer Notes

The FCC defines a 'space station' in Part 97 specifically based on its altitude above the Earth. According to the rules, any amateur station located more than 50 kilometers (about 31 miles) above the Earth's surface is legally considered a space station. This definition applies strictly based on altitude, regardless of whether the station is manned (like the International Space Station) or unmanned (like a standard amateur satellite). Distractors mentioning 'any satellite' or 'manned satellite' are incorrect because they ignore the strict 50 km altitude threshold set by the rules.
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On which of the following HF frequencies can automatically controlled amateur propagation beacons be found?
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Who recommends transmit/receive channels for repeater and auxiliary stations?