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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/hame-telecommand-codes

May an amateur telecommand station use special codes to obscure its commands to a space station?

Yes, but only for telecommand messages to the space station.

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  1. Yes, for telecommand messages to the space station ✔
  2. No, all amateur messages must be in plain language
  3. Only during a declared emergency

Why: Rule 97.211(b) allows special codes intended to obscure the meaning of telecommand messages to the station in space operation. That protects a satellite from being commanded by anyone who copies the signal.

Huh, didn't know that: Rule 97.211(d) allows a space telecommand station to transmit one-way communications.

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References

Answer: Yes, for telecommand messages to the space station. Rule 97.211(b) allows special codes intended to obscure the meaning of telecommand messages to the station in space operation. That protects a satellite from being commanded by anyone who copies the signal.

  1. 47 CFR 97.211 Space telecommand station (Cornell LII mirror of eCFR) www.law.cornell.edu/cfr/text/47/97.211
    may transmit special codes intended to obscure the meaning
    Checked 2026-10-11.
  2. 47 CFR 97.211 Space telecommand station (Cornell LII mirror of eCFR) www.law.cornell.edu/cfr/text/47/97.211
    may transmit one-way communications
    Checked 2026-10-11.
  3. 47 CFR 97.211 Space telecommand station (Cornell LII mirror of eCFR) www.law.cornell.edu/cfr/text/47/97.211
    designated by the licensee of a space station
    Checked 2026-10-11.

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