CapCom

CapCom, short for Capsule Communicator, is the designated NASA mission control specialist responsible for communicating with astronauts aboard spacecraft. The CapCom serves as the primary link between the crew and the rest of the mission control team, including the flight director, engineers, and medical personnel. The role is central to operational safety and efficiency, requiring clear, concise communication to relay instructions, status updates, and troubleshooting information.

Historically, CapComs have supported missions from the early space program through Apollo, the Space Shuttle era, and later Space Station operations. The CapCom works from the Mission Control Center in Houston and is chosen for experience in spaceflight operations, familiarity with spacecraft systems, and strong communication and situational awareness. Training involves simulations, language clarity drills, and coordination exercises with the crew and other control rooms.

Responsibilities typically include transmitting commands or requests to the crew, confirming telemetry readings, coordinating with EVA teams, monitoring crew well-being, and escalating issues when necessary. The CapCom must manage information flow so that astronauts receive timely, unambiguous guidance, particularly during critical procedures or emergencies.

Note that CapCom is sometimes used informally as shorthand for Capsule Communicator; it should not be confused with Capcom, the video game company, whose official name is Capcom. The term remains a key element of NASA’s mission operations and is occasionally referenced in popular culture when describing mission control.