Frequently Asked Questions

If you arrived at this page via a link from a non-KSC site, you may wish to go to the KSC Spectrum Management home page for more information.

NASA Frequencies
How can I listen to the Space Shuttle?
Radio Frequency Authorizations (RFA)
What should I to do before I use a transmitting device at KSC or CCAFS?
Are any devices exempt from the requirement to obtain a Radio Frequency Authorization?
Where can I get a Radio Frequency Authorization Request form?
How long does it take to get a Radio Frequency Authorization?
I work for a radio/television organization. How do I get permission to broadcast from KSC?
What's special about transmitting on Global Positioning System (GPS) frequencies?
Specific Types of Transmitting Devices
Can I use nonlicensed (i.e. Part 15) devices at KSC?
Can I use my Ham/CB/GMRS/FRS radio at KSC?
Can I use FCC-licensed devices for official business?
Radio Frequency Interference
Someone is interfering with me. What do I do?
Miscellaneous
What do I have to do before I purchase a RF transmitting device for use at KSC?
Where can I get more information about spectrum management?
What is "narrowbanding" and why should I be concerned about it?

How can I listen to the Space Shuttle?

Click on the following links for information about Space Shuttle communications:

(Updated 11/3/04)

What should I do before using a transmitting device at KSC or CCAFS?

A Radio Frequency Authorization (RFA) must be issued by the Spectrum Manager prior to the operation of any communications or electronic equipment that intentionally radiates or re-radiates radio frequency signals. RFAs are obtained by completing a Radio Frequency Authorization Request form and submitting it to the Spectrum Manager. Depending on the frequency requested, processing time is at least 60 days. It is not unusual to take much longer. Users are advised to submit their requests as soon as possible.

Are any devices exempt from the requirement to obtain a Radio Frequency Authorization (RFA)?

Yes, the following devices do not require a RFA:

Communications services provided by commercial vendors such as cell phones
Test equipment such as signal generators that will not be connected to an antenna
Wireless devices that use infrared light instead of radio frequencies
FCC licensed devices for personal use such as amateur radio, CB, GMRS, and FRS.
"Cordless" telephones and wireless mice/keyboards
Nonlicensed devices with a valid FCC Part 15 ID; however, there are restrictions associated with the operation of this equipment.

(Updated 8/11/03)

Where can I get an Radio Frequency Authorization Request (RFA) form?

Forms are available on the RFA Request Forms page.

(Updated 7/17/03)

How long does it take get an Radio Frequency Authorization?

The following times are approximate and are based on having received all of the required information from the requester:

Broadcasters, production companies, and other FCC licensees - one week
Spacecraft and payload processing -
- ELV or single flight Shuttle payload - four weeks
- Multiflight Shuttle payloads - eight weeks
Land mobile radio, radar, NAVAIDs - eight weeks
GPS frequency transmissions - ten weeks

Unusual circumstances can add to these times. Contact Steve Schindler (867-2520) for more information. The bottom line is GET YOUR REQUEST IN EARLY!

(Updated 8/11/03)

I work for a radio/television organization. How do I get permission to broadcast from KSC?

Broadcasters must obtain a Radio Frequency Authorization (RFA). This can be obtained by completing an online Public Affairs Radio Frequency Authorization Request. In addition, you must fax a copy of your current FCC licenses for all frequencies to be used to the KSC Spectrum Manager (instructions are included with the RFA Request form). The Authorization will remain in effect as long as a current copy of your FCC licenses are kept on file with the Spectrum Manager. If you have additional questions or need more information, contact Steve Schindler, 321-867-2520.

In addition to obtaining an RFA, broadcasters must also comply with KSC Radiation Protection Program requirements. Contact the KSC Radiation Protection Officer (321-867-6958) for additional information.

For detailed information on the guidelines and regulations media should follow while covering events at KSC, refer to the KSC Press Site News Media Handbook.

(Updated 7/17/03)

What's special about transmitting on GPS frequencies?

GPS signals are used for critical functions including timing, radio communications, and aircraft navigation. Consequently, transmissions on or near GPS frequencies are highly restricted All levels and types of transmissions are prohibited within 12 MHz of 1575.42 MHz, 1227.6 MHz, and 1381.05 MHz without a valid Radio Frequency Authorization coordinated with the Federal Aviation Administration and US Coast Guard at the national level. If you have a requirement to transmit in any of these frequency ranges, please contact Steven Schindler, (867-2520), at least 75 days prior to your first use date.

Use of nonlicensed devices

The use of nonlicensed devices, including wireless local area networks and wireless microphones, is permitted under the following conditions:

(1) All nonlicensed devices with a valid FCC Part 15 ID are authorized as a class of stations. Individual RFAs are not required. Users should verify that the device has a valid FCC ID. If the device does not have a FCC ID or if the ID cannot be verified, contact Steve Schindler (321-867-2520).

(2) The nonlicensed devices must meet the requirements of Part 15 of the Federal Communications Commission's Rules and Regulations (47 CFR 15) and Annex K of the National Telecommunications and Information Administration's Regulations. Operation of nonlicensed devices is authorized on a noninterference basis (NIB) to other authorized users. Upon notification by cognizant spectrum management personnel that the device is causing interference, the operator of the nonlicensed device shall cease all radiations from the device until the interference is eliminated.

(3) Nonlicensed devices will not receive protection from harmful interference from other users. These devices must accept any interference from an authorized Federal or non-Federal radio system, other nonlicensed device, or industrial, scientific, or medical (ISM) equipment. In the event that a nonlicensed device experiences harmful interference, the user must resolve the problem administratively.

(Updated 8/11/03)

Can I use my Ham/CB/GMRS/FRS radio at KSC?

The use of hand-held and mobile voice communications equipment by private individuals who hold a valid FCC license in the Amateur Radio Service, Citizen's Radio Service (CB), or General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS) does not require a Radio Frequency Authorization; however, users who are found to be violating FCC Rules and Regulations will lose their privilege to operate on KSC. RFAs are required for all nonvoice communications equipment (radio control, data transmission, etc.). Radios in the Family Radio Service (FRS) do not require a FCC license or a RFA.

(Updated 3/5/03)

Can I use FCC-licensed devices for official business?

This answer is somewhat complicated and requires a detailed explanation. In the United States, the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) manages the Federal Government's use of the radio frequency spectrum while the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) manages all other users. To allow the two agencies to effectively manage the spectrum for their respective users, there are specific allocations for Federal use and non-Federal use. All radio stations that are operated by or for the Federal Government receive "frequency assignments" from the NTIA and must operate in the portions of the spectrum that are allocated for Federal Government use. All other users receive operating licenses issued by the FCC for frequencies in the non-Government spectrum allocations. Non-Government users (contractors, private individuals, etc.) may use FCC licensed devices at KSC subject to the following restrictions:

(1) Equipment that is purchased with Government funds, either outright or as Government Furnished Equipment (GFE), is considered to be a Government Radio Station and may not be operated on frequencies within non-Government (i.e.-FCC) spectrum allocations.

(2) When the use of FCC licensed devices is permitted, the user must posses a valid FCC license and must receive an RFA from the Spectrum Manager prior to using the devices.

(3) The devices must not cause interference to NASA's official-use communications systems. If interference occurs, use of the devices must be terminated until the cause of the interference is resolved.

(4) Resolution of RFI caused to an FCC licensed device is the responsibility of the user.

(5) Contractors should request RFAs through the cognizant Contracting Officer. A copy of the user's FCC license must accompany the request. The devices must be retained by the Contractor when the contract is terminated.

(6) Employees of the Federal Government (i.e. civil service personnel) may not normally utilize devices that operate in the non-Government spectrum in the performance of their official duties. However, exceptions can be made when it is necessary for Government and non-Government users to communicate on the same frequency.

Someone is interfering with me. What do I do?

The probability of radio frequency interference (RFI) increases as more and more demands for frequency channels (assignments) are placed on the RF spectrum. In an attempt to meet these demands and to optimize the use of the spectrum, the space between channels is minimized within the limitations imposed by the state of-the-art development of electronic equipment; the same frequencies are often shared by frequency users separated geographically; or the same frequencies may be assigned to two or more users on a time-share basis. Because of this, some interference must be expected (and even tolerated) since, ordinarily, clear channels are not available within the overcrowded frequency spectrum.

If interference is so severe that it cannot be tolerated, the frequency user should take as many of the following action as possible:

a. Promptly document the interference indicating date, time, and location.

b. Thoroughly check the affected equipment to ensure that the RFI is not being generated internally or onsite and that the equipment is operating properly.

c. If possible, identify the source of the interference by call sign (or other identification).

d. Measure the frequency or band of frequencies causing the interference.

e. Determine the type of emission and the type of traffic being transmitted.

f. Measure the bandwidth of the interfering signal (highest and lowest frequencies) and note the type of equipment used for measurement.

g. Measure the strength of the interfering signal.

h. Determine the nature or severity of the interference. Indicate the impact to operations including the data loss or data degradation due to interference.

i. Collect any additional information that is necessary or may be useful in identifying and clearing the RFI (e.g., tape recordings or spectrum photographs).

j. Immediately report the RFI to Frequency Control and Analysis (321-867-3193/3434), citing the above where possible. During nonduty hours, contact the Patrick Air Force Base Command Post (321-494-7001).

Where can I get more information about spectrum management?

For more information on the KSC Spectrum Management program, contact Steven Schindler, 321-867-2520 or consult KSC Radio Frequency Spectrum Management Procedural Requirements (KNPR2570.1).

For more information on spectrum management on a national level, consult the Federal Communication Commission's home page or the National Telecommunications & Information Administration's home page.

(Updated 8/11/03)

What is "narrowbanding" and why should I be concerned about it?

"Narrowbanding" is the reorganization of the Federal Land Mobile Radio (LMR) bands (162-174 MHz and 406.1-420 MHz) from channels spaced every 25 kHz to channels spaced every 12.5 kHz. After all users have switched to the narrowband mode of operation, the number of channels in the LMR bands will be double what it currently is and will allow for more users in the same band.

Federal spectrum users should be concerned about narrowbanding because as of January 1, 1995, all new assignments in the LMR bands must be "narrowband." This means that means existing "wideband" radio equipment which requires a signal bandwidth of 16 kHz cannot be used on LMR frequencies that are "assigned" after January 1, 1995. Instead, new equipment that requires only 11 kHz of signal bandwidth must be used. Do not purchase any new equipment without first contacting the Spectrum Manager to ensure that you have a valid frequency authorization and that you are buying the right type of equipment. For more information about buying radio equipment see the FAQ about Procurement.

All existing LMR systems in the VHF band (162-174 MHz) must be converted to narrowband operation prior to January 1, 2005. All existing LMR systems in the UHF band (406.1-420 MHz) must be converted to narrowband operation prior to January 1, 2008.

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