Short for Capsule Communicator. The CAPCOM is the single point of contact in Mission Control who speaks over the radio to the astronauts in space. Having one designated voice prevents confusion and ensures that instructions from the flight director and engineering teams are relayed clearly and efficiently.
Heard on the job
CAPCOM, tell the crew they're go for the deorbit burn.
Insider tip
Historically, this role was always filled by another astronaut, as they best understood the workload and environment of the crew in orbit. The requirement has since relaxed to include specialized flight controllers.
Also heard as
- Capsule Communicator