Virtually every endeavor that NASA undertakes requires communications or data transfer via the electromagnetic spectrum. NASA relies on Space Communications and Navigation (SCaN) to provide this vital service to all of its space missions. SCaN is also responsible for the Agency’s use of radio frequency spectrum so it participates, on behalf of NASA, at national and international meetings to ensure compliance with rules and regulations, ensure timely dissemination of regulatory changes, and defend NASA’s use of spectrum.
The United Nation’s International Telecommunication Union (ITU) is the international agency responsible for allocating global radio spectrum. On May 17, 2015 the ITU celebrated 150 years since the signing of the first International Telegraph Convention and the creation of the International Telegraph Union.
As part of the celebrations, videos from around the world were shown during the ceremony. Included in that showcase of videos, was a one and a half minute message from NASA astronaut, Scott Kelly who is currently on a one year mission onboard the International Space Station (ISS). SCaN coordinated with the ISS team to schedule a few minutes of Scott’s time to record that message.