Why would they? It would just be a lot of hassle and money for something that is released for free anyway. You can get the same images off of NOAA's web site.
I hope that the control link is authenticated and encrypted in someway.
I hope that the control link is authenticated and encrypted in someway.
Edit: It's more of a security through obscurity setup. The command codes aren't published (plus, they're protected under ITAR), and probably vary quite a bit per satellite. I think they are just hoping nobody takes the time to figure out what bits to send.