*Question T1B02:
[97.301, 97.207(c)] Which amateurs may contact the International Space Station (ISS) on VHF bands?*  

*Correct Answer is  B: Any amateur holding a Technician class or higher license*  

### AI Response: (may contain errors)  

To understand which amateurs may contact the International Space Station (ISS) on VHF bands, we need to consider the licensing requirements set by the FCC and the operational guidelines for the ISS.

### Correct Answer: 
**Any amateur holding a Technician class or higher license.**

#### Explanation:
- The ISS operates on VHF frequencies, specifically on 145.800 MHz for voice communications.
- The Technician class license is the entry-level amateur radio license that allows operation on VHF and UHF bands, including the frequencies used by the ISS.
- Therefore, any amateur with a Technician class license or higher (General or Extra) is permitted to communicate with the ISS.

### Why the Other Choices are Incorrect:
- **Choice A: Any amateur holding a General class or higher license.**
  - This is incorrect because it excludes Technician class licensees, who are also allowed to contact the ISS on VHF.

- **Choice C: Any amateur holding a General class or higher license who has applied for and received approval from NASA.**
  - This is incorrect because it implies that only General class licensees can contact the ISS, which is not true. Technician class licensees can also make these contacts without special approval.

- **Choice D: Any amateur holding a Technician class or higher license who has applied for and received approval from NASA.**
  - This is incorrect because it suggests that Technician class licensees need special approval from NASA to contact the ISS, which is not a requirement.

### Summary:
- **Licensing Requirement:** Technician class or higher is sufficient for VHF communication with the ISS.
- **No Special Approval Needed:** All licensed amateurs in the appropriate classes can communicate without additional permissions.

This understanding is crucial for the Extra Class exam and for practical amateur radio operations involving the ISS.