Updated: Dec 9, 2025 | Source: 2022-2026 Question Pool | Topic: T1D
T1D04T1D

Under what conditions is an amateur station authorized to transmit music using a phone emission?

Deep Dive: T1D04

The correct answer is A: When incidental to an authorized retransmission of manned spacecraft communications. According to FCC Part 97.113(c), music may be transmitted using phone emissions only when it's incidental to retransmitting communications from manned spacecraft (like the International Space Station). This is a very narrow exception. When astronauts on the ISS or other manned spacecraft communicate, and that communication happens to include music (perhaps as background, or as part of a scheduled event), amateurs may retransmit those communications, including the incidental music. However, you cannot simply play music on amateur frequencies for entertainment or any other purpose. This exception exists to allow amateurs to relay interesting space communications to others who might not be able to receive them directly.

Why Other Answers Are Wrong

Option B: Incorrect. The absence of spurious emissions doesn't permit music transmission. Music is only allowed when incidental to manned spacecraft retransmissions. Option C: Incorrect. Time limits don't permit music transmission. The only exception is incidental music in manned spacecraft retransmissions. Option D: Incorrect. Frequency doesn't matter - music is only permitted when incidental to manned spacecraft retransmissions, regardless of frequency.

Exam Tip

Music = Manned spacecraft retransmissions only. Remember: Music is only allowed when it's incidental to retransmitting communications from manned spacecraft. No other music transmission is permitted.

Memory Aid

**M**usic = **M**anned **S**pacecraft **M**essages (think 'M = MSM')

Real-World Example

The International Space Station is conducting a scheduled event where an astronaut plays a musical instrument as part of their communication. You receive this transmission and retransmit it to other amateurs who can't receive the ISS directly. The music is incidental to the manned spacecraft communication, so your retransmission (including the music) is permitted. However, you cannot play your favorite song on amateur frequencies just for entertainment.

Source & Coverage

Question Pool: 2022-2026 Question Pool

Subelement: T1D

Reference: FCC Part 97.113(c)

Key Concepts

FCC Part 97.113(c) Music transmission Manned spacecraft Retransmission

Verified Content

Question from the official FCC Technician Class pool. Explanation reviewed by licensed amateur radio operators and mapped to the T1D topic.